South African Innovators Receive Top Honors at the 11th All Africa Business Leaders Awards

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Melvyn Lubega and Daniel Ndima, two South African business leaders, were recognized for their exceptional contributions to innovation and community development at the 11th All Africa Business Leaders Awards (AABLA) in partnership with CNBC Africa.

Innovator of the Year: Daniel Ndima

Daniel Ndima, CEO of CapeBio, a biotech firm specializing in the development and manufacturing of life science research reagents, was awarded the title of Innovator of the Year. CapeBio made history by becoming the first African company to produce rapid COVID-19 test kits.

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CapeBio originated as a research project in 2015 and evolved into a privately-owned company supported by E2 Investments and the Technology Innovation Agency (TIA). It aims to reduce African countries’ reliance on imported diagnostic reagents, ensuring affordable healthcare and timely medical interventions. CapeBio utilizes a proprietary artificial intelligence platform to discover valuable biomolecules such as enzymes, proteins, and peptides found in unique African microbial ecosystems. With a strong pipeline of innovative health technologies, CapeBio is set to have a significant impact on Africa’s scientific-industrial revolution.

All Africa Young Business Leader of the Year: Melvyn Lubega

Melvyn Lubega, executive chairperson of Baobab Group, was recognized as All Africa Young Business Leader of the Year. Baobab Group focuses on building and investing in ventures that make a meaningful impact on the communities they serve, spanning education and logistics. Lubega emphasized their commitment to solving the world’s most pressing problems through business endeavors.

Keynote Address by Deputy President Paul Mashatile

Deputy President Paul Mashatile delivered a keynote address at the awards ceremony, acknowledging the challenges faced by the nation and the continent. Despite the difficulties, he expressed gratitude and appreciation for the nominees, describing them as ordinary individuals who have made extraordinary decisions in the face of adversity and challenges. He recognized their ability to bring glory to their organizations, inspire their teams, and serve as role models for future business leaders.

The Power of Innovation in Addressing Societal Challenges

Melvyn Lubega and Daniel Ndima exemplify the power of innovation in addressing societal challenges and improving lives. Their accomplishments at the All Africa Business Leaders Awards highlight the vital role that business leaders can play in shaping Africa’s future. As these entrepreneurs continue to break new ground, their ingenuity and determination will undoubtedly inspire the next generation of business leaders to tackle the most urgent challenges facing their communities and the world.

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Amanda Wilson is a Cape Town-born journalist who covers the city’s evolving food scene for national and international outlets, tracing stories from Bo-Kaap spice shops to Khayelitsha micro-breweries. Raised on her grandmother’s Karoo lamb potjie and weekend hikes up Lion’s Head, she brings equal parts palate and pride to every assignment. Colleagues know her for the quiet warmth that turns interviews into friendships and fact-checks into shared laughter.

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