Abidjan, 22 May 2026 – The pan-African initiative Les Bâtisseurs de l’Économie Africaine has revealed its 20th-anniversary laureates, honouring nations whose public policies and sectoral achievements have driven economic and social progress across the continent.
Celebrating transformative public policies and sectoral excellence
A special category was introduced this year to recognise African states that have made remarkable strides in key sectors through effective governance and targeted interventions. The winners were chosen by an independent panel of African experts and journalists, who evaluated candidates based on policy impact, economic performance, sectoral progress, and contributions to African integration.
2026 laureates: sectoral champions and innovation leaders
The announcement highlighted standout achievements across diverse fields:
- Democratic Republic of the Congo – recognised for its mining sector policies, driving growth and sustainability in natural resources management;
- Côte d’Ivoire – honoured for agricultural transformation, reinforcing food security and rural development;
- Seychelles – awarded for education, skills training, and employment initiatives, fostering a skilled workforce;
- Morocco – double distinction in healthcare, pharmaceuticals, and green development, showcasing integrated progress;
- Egypt – celebrated for infrastructure expansion, connecting regions and boosting trade;
- Kenya – lauded for technology, artificial intelligence, and innovation ecosystems;
- Algeria – commended for energy sector reforms, advancing renewable and conventional energy capacities;
- South Africa – recognised for industrial and service sector resilience;
- Tanzania – honoured for tourism and hospitality growth;
- Nigeria – awarded for creative and cultural industries, boosting cultural exports and job creation.
Special recognitions for gender equality and diaspora engagement
Beyond sectoral awards, three nations received special honours:
- Namibia – praised for gender equality and women’s empowerment programmes;
- Ghana – commended for diaspora return and regional integration policies;
- Morocco – awarded the 20-Year Special Prize for its far-reaching economic and social transformations.
A platform for sustainable economic transformation
Michel Russel Lohoré, Founding President of Les Bâtisseurs de l’Économie Africaine, emphasised the initiative’s mission: to spotlight not only businesses and economic leaders but also public policies and national visions that lay the foundation for long-term continental growth.
Valentin Mbougueng, Jury President and international affairs analyst, noted that the selection process drew on global and regional rankings, specialised publications, and field-level expertise from jury members.
Grand celebration planned in Abidjan
The laureates will be formally honoured at a gala event on 18 June in Abidjan, marking two decades of celebrating Africa’s economic builders and innovators.
Since its launch in 2006, Les Bâtisseurs de l’Économie Africaine has become a leading platform, celebrating economic actors, institutions, and investors who are committed to Africa’s sustainable development.
