TUKO.co.ke has unveiled the winners of the Business Leaders Awards 2025, a national campaign celebrating organisations and executives shaping Kenya’s economic future through innovation, resilience, and purpose-driven leadership.
Kenya’s economy is gradually stabilising, supported by easing inflation and improved access to credit. In this environment, companies and business leaders are redefining progress—moving beyond profitability to embrace sustainability, inclusivity, and community impact.
The TUKO.co.ke Business Leaders Awards 2025 highlights businesses and leaders whose strategies strengthen people, purpose, and the planet.
Nominees were selected following comprehensive internal research identifying Kenya’s most progressive and high-performing companies.
“This campaign shows that innovation and resilience are vital in uncertain times, and stories of this year’s nominees will inspire the next generation of Kenyan business visionaries,” said Jacob Otieno, Managing Editor at TUKO.co.ke.
Leaders in the Spotlight
The 2025 honourees excel across four key categories:
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Innovation and Impact Award
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Sustainability and Climate Resilience Award
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Youth Empowerment & Inclusive Growth Award
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Community Engagement Excellence Award
Innovation and Impact Award
Ashish Malhotra, CEO – Airtel Kenya
Airtel Kenya continues to invest heavily in digital infrastructure and cutting-edge technologies. The telco is also narrowing the digital divide through its Adopt a School Programme with UNICEF, which has provided more than 100,000 students with access to online learning tools and digital education content.
“We recognise that the real power of technology lies in preparing future generations to fully harness its potential,” says Ashish Malhotra.
Sustainability and Climate Resilience Award
Allan Kilavuka, CEO – Kenya Airways
Kenya Airways is leading Africa’s shift to green aviation through strategic investments in Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). The airline recently won the Best Approach to Scaling SAF award, underscoring its commitment to reducing carbon emissions.
“Our goal is to use a 10% Sustainable Aviation Fuel blend by 2030. We are also working on building Kenya’s first SAF production facility,” says Allan Kilavuka.
Youth Empowerment & Inclusive Growth Award
Dr. Gamaliel Hassan, CEO – Stima Sacco
Stima Sacco has placed young people at the core of its transformation strategy, delivering financial empowerment through tailored youth products. These include accessible asset financing, mortgage solutions, and investment options offering returns of up to 16%.
“We continue to sponsor the education of young people who show exceptional potential and commitment to growth,” says Dr. Gamaliel Hassan.
Community Engagement Excellence Award
Carolyne Nekesa, Head of Marketing – Minet Kenya
Minet Kenya is redefining community-focused corporate wellness through its initiatives on maternal health and mental well-being. In 2025, the company hosted a transformative Mother’s Day wellness event, which expanded into the Blooming Mums Club, offering maternal health check-ins, financial literacy support, and mental wellness resources for families.
“We understand that beyond physical wellness, mental and emotional health are vital for thriving families and workplaces, and we go beyond our core business to create experiences that affirm and uplift,” says Carolyne Nekesa.
Sustainability and Climate Resilience Award
Peter Murungi, Managing Director – Energy Kenya (Vivo Energy Kenya)
Vivo Energy Kenya is accelerating the nation’s clean energy transition through expanded LPG and solar energy solutions. Its projects have powered schools, health centres, and small enterprises in underserved off-grid communities, enabling safer and more sustainable energy consumption.
Inspiring the Next Generation of Leaders
These distinguished leaders are setting new standards for corporate leadership in Kenya—driving economic recovery while championing social impact, environmental responsibility, and inclusive growth.
Where to Learn More
Read the full stories and leader profiles on TUKO.co.ke, or visit the TUKO.co.ke Business of the Year Awards 2025 website for important dates and submission details.
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About TUKO.co.ke
TUKO.co.ke is Kenya’s leading digital news platform, dedicated to telling stories that reflect the country’s heartbeat—informing, entertaining, and inspiring people across all regions. Its coverage champions socio-economic development, innovation, and resilience throughout the Kenyan economy.