As we stand on the brink of the new year 2026, the industry has moved beyond simple media relations, and we’re dealing with the peak of the Creator Economy, the complexities of Generative AI, and a global audience that demands radical transparency.

But more importantly, the center of gravity is shifting. Some of the most influential African Public Relations experts are now setting the global standard.

We believe the best way to learn strategy is to watch the strategists. Who is rewriting the playbook? Who is turning communication into a business asset?

Bloomwit has curated a list of 10 PR Personalities to Watch in 2026. This list is unapologetically African-led because, in 2026, Africa isn’t just a part of the conversation; it is the conversation.

1. Ayeni Adekunle (Nigeria)

You can’t talk about the shifting global tides without mentioning Ayeni, founder of BHM Group. As the convener of World PR Day, he has spent the last decade proving that Africa isn’t just a market to be entered, it’s a voice to be heard.

Ayeni’s work with the Nigeria PR Report has set the benchmark for using data to legitimize the industry. Watch him in 2026 to learn how to build sovereign narratives telling your own story before someone else tells it for you.

2. Oti Egwu (Nigeria)

As a key strategist at Djembe Consultants Oti has built an enviable portfolio, working on communications projects for heavyweights like the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Mastercard, and M&C Saatchi.

He isn’t just writing press releases; he is translating complex global goals into clear, actionable narratives for African markets, and leading the charge on “Communication as Infrastructure.”

He argues that in Africa, unclear messaging isn’t just a branding problem; it’s a $200 billion economic barrier.

Watch him in 2026 for High-Stakes Communication. In an era where AI is creating generic content at scale, Oti’s “Strategic Writing” methodology teaches brands how to use human psychology and lucid prose to cut through the noise. He proves that you don’t need to shout to be heard; you just need to make sense.

3. Mimi Kalinda (DRC / South Africa)

Co-founder of Africa Communications Media Group (ACG), Mimi doesn’t just do PR; she teaches “narrative reframing” as an Adjunct Professor at IE University. She understands that for African businesses to scale, they must dismantle old stereotypes first.

As brands look to localize their messages next year, her methodology on using heritage as a competitive business advantage will be the industry blueprint.

4. Bozoma Saint John (Ghana / USA)

“Boz” has always been bigger than the C-suite roles she occupied at Netflix or Uber. Now, as a cast member of The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills and host of NBC’s On Brand, she represents the future of the PR practitioner: the Influencer-Executive.

Watch out for her to understand how to blend pop culture with corporate strategy. She proves that emotion and “vibes” are quantifiable business metrics, a crucial lesson for any African brand looking to go global.

5. Thebe Ikalafeng (South Africa)

Thebe is the force behind Brand Africa. He isn’t just promoting companies; he is branding an entire continent. He understands that a “Made in Africa” label needs a reputation management strategy of its own.

He is the person to watch for Destination Branding. As the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) matures in 2026, Thebe’s strategies on cross-border reputation will be the gold standard for trade communication.

6. Maha Aboul-Enein (Egypt)

Based between Cairo and the US, Maha has mastered the art of the “Digital First” mindset. Author of 7 Rules of Self-Reliance, she is the bridge between traditional Middle Eastern/North African business values and the fast-paced modern digital world.

Watch Maha for Personal Branding at Scale. She teaches us that the CEO is the media channel. If your executives aren’t visible on digital platforms, your company is invisible.

7. Adwoa Wiafe (Ghana)

Leading corporate services and sustainability for MTN Ghana, Adwoa operates at the intersection of big telco business and community impact.

She is the one to watch for Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Communication. She demonstrates how to communicate “doing good” without it sounding like greenwashing. Her work proves that in African markets, community trust is the only currency that matters.

8. Kwame Senou (Côte d’Ivoire / Benin)

Founder of THOP (The Opinion & Public), Kwame is the critical link in Francophone Africa. Too often, Anglophone strategies fail in Francophone markets because they ignore nuance. Kwame fixes that.

Watch him for Cross-Cultural Intelligence. As West Africa integrates economically, Kwame represents the PR leader who can speak fluently to both Abidjan and Lagos, a skill that will be in high demand in 2026.

9. Anyiko Owoko (Kenya)

If you know East African entertainment (from Sauti Sol to major festivals), you know Anyiko. She is the queen of Lifestyle and Entertainment PR in East Africa through her agency, Anyiko Public Relations.

She represents the PR of Cool. Watch Anyiko to learn how to manage talent and lifestyle brands in a way that feels organic, not manufactured. She teaches us that “hype” is a strategy, not an accident.

10. Eloine Barry (Senegal / Côte d’Ivoire)

We round out this list with the woman building the continent’s megaphone. As the founder of African Media Agency (AMA), Eloine isn’t just pitching stories; she is building the infrastructure that carries them. She understands that for “Africa to be the conversation,” we need to own the platforms where that conversation happens.

Eloine is the person to watch for Media Intelligence & Distribution in 2026. As the lines between earned media and content distribution blur, her work in democratizing access to the African narrative on African terms is the ultimate power move.

What’s Your 2026 Narrative?

Looking at this list, one thing is clear: The future of PR is diverse, data-driven, and story-led.

Whether it’s Ayeni’s data sovereignty in Nigeria, Mimi’s storytelling in South Africa, or Anyiko’s cultural waves in Kenya, these personalities share a commitment to value. They don’t just make noise; they make sense.

*Bloomwit is obsessed with helping you find that same clarity. You don’t need to be a multinational giant to apply these lessons. You just need the right tools.

The post 10 African PR Personalities to Watch in 2026 appeared first on Tech | Business | Economy.

Against the backdrop of unprecedented demographic growth, transformative technological shifts, and Africa’s expanding role in global markets, Allison Worldwide; Black House Media (BHM), Africa’s leading public relations firm andThe King’s Trust is co-hosting the second edition of the exclusive Africa Breakfast Conversations on the sidelines of the 80th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA 80) in New York City.

Scheduled for Friday, 26 September 2025 at the World Trade Center, this high-level invite-only exclusive event will bring together heads of business, policymakers, innovators, philanthropists, and cultural leaders from across Africa and the diaspora.

The event will explore how African-led innovation, strategic partnerships, and inclusive growth strategies can accelerate progress toward the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals.

With the theme,  African Innovation: Building Together for Sustainable Development,  the event will feature panel discussions, thought-provoking keynote addresses, and high-impact networking sessions spotlighting the many dimensions of Africa’s growth story  – from big business and breakthrough technologies to the creative economy, pop culture, soft power, and geopolitics.

“Africa’s innovation story is no longer emerging, it’s here. This gathering at UNGA 80 is about moving from conversation to collaboration, ensuring that Africa’s youthful energy, creativity, and expertise are met with the resources and partnerships to build sustainable futures.” – Claudine Moore, managing director, Africa at Allison.

Following a successful inaugural edition, the second edition, in partnership with The King’s Trust, will also underscore the pivotal role of youth empowerment, skills development, and leadership opportunities in driving sustainable progress.

Bringing together African and diaspora leaders, innovators, and changemakers, the gathering will showcase expertise, innovation, and African-led solutions at the heart of global conversations.

“This is more than an event; it’s a platform for action. The Africa Breakfast Conversations harness the power of dialogue to create connections that lead to investment, innovation, and impact, bridging Africa and the global economy in meaningful ways ”- Ayeni Adekunle, founder of BHM. 

“We believe in the boundless potential of Africa’s young people. By working together to help young people gain skills and work experience, we can empower the next generation to find meaningful work and set up their own businesses, which will shape Africa’s – and the world’s – future.” – Will Straw, CEO, King’s Trust International.

The Africa Breakfast Conversations align with UNGA 80’s focus on multilateral solutions for sustainable development, placing Africa’s voices and visions at the center of global decision-making. Click here to register to attend

The post BHM, Allison and The King’s Trust Unveil 2nd ‘Africa Breakfast Convos’ at UNGA80 appeared first on Tech | Business | Economy.

Nigeria has the highest number of tech startups in Africa with over 3,360 as of 2024. That’s more than Egypt and Kenya combined! 

But again, Africa has the highest entrepreneurial rate globally, with 22% of its working-age adults in the space, yet it also holds the crown for the greatest fear of failure among budding entrepreneurs.

Why the paradox? Perhaps it’s the daily duel with inflation, unstable exchange rates, or even the high stakes of being courageous in an unstable market. 

Nevertheless, Africa’s perceived opportunities and credibility are one to commend, creating a system where innovation thrives despite the odds.

Today, we dive into the stories of 10 entrepreneurs to watch in 2025, having gone through challenges, overcame them, and still driving through the rough roads.

These, among many others, are the leaders turning challenges into achievements, from enhancing financial technology to bolstering transport and embracing blockchain as well as cybersecurity innovations. 

These entrepreneurs reiterate the fact that Africa isn’t just watching the world evolve, it’s involved in the processes.

Fintech and Digital Commerce

1. Mitchell Elegbe

Mitchell Elegbe, the founder and group managing director of Interswitch Group, is one with a huge impact on Africa’s financial technology sector. His impact was globally recognised in 2024, when he was appointed to the jury for the Ernst & Young (EY) World Entrepreneur of the Year (WEOY) Awards, held in Monte Carlo, Monaco.

Elegbe was inducted into the 2023 WEOY Hall of Fame becoming the first African entrepreneur to win in both the emerging and master categories of the awards. 

In 2024, his role as a juror further boosted his global profile, placing him as a representative of African innovation. His contributions to digital payments and financial inclusion were further recognised when he was named one of the top fintech CEOs of 2023 by the Financial Technology Report, joining the ranks of leaders from PayPal, Visa, and Mastercard.

Under Elegbe’s leadership, Interswitch has remained at the fore of Africa’s payment efficiency. Having transformed the company into a unicorn in 2019, Interswitch has expanded its footprint across 23 African countries, providing solutions that have made cross-border payments seamless. Its platforms, such as Quickteller and Verve, have become integral to financial transactions across the continent.

Elegbe’s accolades also include receiving the Lifetime Achievement Award at the CIO Awards Africa, recognising his contributions to Nigeria’s technology sector. Through his advocacy for innovation and mentorship of young entrepreneurs, Elegbe is building a new generation of African business leaders. His focus on leveraging technology to drive economic development places him among the top entrepreneurs to watch in 2025.

2. Elsie Godwin

Elsie Godwin is the perfect blend of creativity, strategy, and innovation. As the co-founder and chief operating officer of Cashwise Finance, she recently led the launch of a daring fintech platform that bolsters global remittance. 

With features like Virtual USD Cards and Zelle integration, Cashwise aims to simplify international transactions while maintaining compliance across multiple jurisdictions. The app’s transparent pricing and user-centric ethos make it a game-changer in the fintech space.

Beyond fintech, Elsie Godwin is a seasoned marketing and communications professional and a respected media personality. With a career spanning diverse sectors, she has established herself as a master of strategic impact and innovation. 

She is the founder and lead strategist at Mind-Mastik Media, a dynamic marketing agency through which she has driven success for various brands by leveraging data-driven insights and trend-savvy strategies. Throughout her career, Elsie has been instrumental in shaping go-to-market strategies for brands in both the Web2 and Web3 spaces. 

Her notable achievements include facilitating the institutional partnership between Pan Atlantic University and Emurgo Africa, which played a pivotal role in advancing blockchain adoption across Africa. She was recognised as one of the Top 40 African Women in Blockchain for her contributions to the blockchain ecosystem.  

Her media presence includes features on Nigeria Info, NewsCentral, TV Plus TV Africa, Arise News, R2TV, Lagos Traffic Radio, and Guardian Nigeria. She has also collaborated with top agencies like BHM, Plaqad, HK Strategies, DottsMedia, Alder Consulting, and Anakle to amplify brand stories. As a Google influencer affiliate, she leverages her platform to share impactful narratives. 

Her dedication to meaningful conversations led to organising Africa’s most prominent bloggers’ conference in 2018 and UnwontedConvos in 2019. Currently, she hosts The Smartpreneur Show, where she highlights the journeys of industry leaders and entrepreneurs. She is a co-host at Nigeria’s number one talk radio station, Nigeria Info, and has recently been seen on an advocacy show on NewscentralTV’s ‘A Place At the Table’.

These combined experiences and achievements make her extraordinary in the drive for impact and innovation.

Telecoms Business

3. Kingsley Adonu

Kingsley Adonu, the founder and CEO of S Mobile Group, is one entrepreneur who is changing the role of technology and business in Africa. His initiatives in 2024 make him one of the most daring entrepreneurs to watch in 2025. 

Adonu’s most commendable achievement of the year was his announcement of the S Mobile Tech Hub in Enugu State, a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) project aimed at promoting innovation, youth entrepreneurship, and job creation.

The hub, which comprises cutting-edge facilities such as robotics labs, high-speed internet, and co-working spaces, reiterates Adonu’s goal to empower young Nigerians. Aligning with the vision of Governor Peter Mbah to revitalise Enugu State’s economy, the hub seeks to create a rich startup ecosystem in the region. 

As the CEO of S Mobile Group, a conglomerate operating across telecommunications, real estate, oil and gas, and more, Adonu’s leadership has placed his company as a key partner of MTN Nigeria. His record-breaking performance in 2024, becoming MTN Nigeria’s top partner in airtime and data distribution, is a milestone for the Southeast region. 

Beyond his business ventures, Adonu’s influence includes academia and philanthropy. He was appointed as a patron of the Students Union Government at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, strengthening his dedication to youth empowerment and education. In his acceptance speech, Adonu reaffirmed his focus on championing digital skills development among young people, revealing his vision of a brighter, tech-driven future for Nigeria.

Adonu’s recognition at the MTN Nigeria Partners Award and his international presence at telecom conferences have further firmed up his prestige as a leader who blends business acumen with a passion for societal impact. 

Transport | Logistics 

4. Chidi Ajaere

Chidi Ajaere is one of the most interesting young entrepreneurs in Nigeria, leading a diverse and thriving conglomerate with over 5,000 employees. As the chairman of GIG Group, Ajaere has masterminded the expansion of the company into various sectors, including logistics, aviation, real estate, banking, energy, and automobile manufacturing. 

In 2024, President Bola Tinubu appointed him to the newly established Presidential Economic Coordination Council (PECC), a body designed to drive economic growth and policy reform in Nigeria. As one of 31 distinguished members, Ajaere’s inclusion in the council further shows how well he is doing in the entrepreneurial space, placing him as one of the most promising entrepreneurs to watch in 2025.

His innovative mind has led to the creation of subsidiaries such as GIG Logistics, GIG Motors, Stella’s Banking and Finance, Richmondhill Real Estate and Property, Ziuss Energy, Oil & Gas, GIG Aviation, and, most recently, Jet Motors, a pioneering African electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer.

Under Ajaere’s leadership, GIG Logistics has flourished, expanding its reach to the United States, United Kingdom, China, and West Africa, delivering services that range from courier and e-commerce logistics to on-board courier services and packaging solutions. 

The company’s partnerships, such as the one with Aim Higher Africa in 2019, where it launched the “Back-2-School Giveaway” for underprivileged children, show that Ajaere aims big when it comes to social impact. Again, GIG Logistics has innovatively responded to Nigeria’s motorcycle ban by converting motorcycles into dispatch vehicles, creating an additional revenue stream for the business.

One of Ajaere’s crowning achievements came with the launch of Jet Motors, which introduced the JET MOVER, a multipurpose van, and an electric vehicle model that pushes Africa’s transition to eco-friendly transportation. The National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC) purchased electric vehicles from Jet Motors, reiterating Ajaere’s focus on reducing carbon emissions in Nigeria.

5. Onyeka Akumah

Onyeka Akumah, the co-founder and CEO of Treepz, is one with an obvious impact felt across the transportation sector in 2024, earning accolades that reflect his leadership. Akumah was named one of Africa’s Under 40 CEOs and received an honorary doctorate from Prowess University, Delaware, USA. His role as a Techstars Global All-Star Mentor further highlights his drive for entrepreneurial talent across Africa.

Treepz’s innovative corporate mobility solutions garnered recognition, with the company winning the Best Startup Pitch in Africa award at the African Union Private Sector High-Level Conference in Lusaka, Zambia. This was accompanied by cash awards from Afreximbank and Google, emphasizing Treepz’s impact on the mobility sector in Nigeria, Ghana, Uganda, and Kenya.

Akumah’s work in real estate through Small Small Technology and in agriculture with Farmcrowdy, Mazia Honey & Tea, and Nyeri Hills Coffee have positively impacted thousands of individuals across the continent. His mentorship of over 60 startups and his contributions as a visiting lecturer at the Rome Business School reiterates his zeal to empower entrepreneurs.

Akumah is a role model for entrepreneurs aiming to scale their ventures while addressing pressing societal needs.

eCommerce | Delivery 

6. Prince Nnamdi Ekeh

Prince Nnamdi Ekeh, CEO of Konga Group, is pioneering innovation in Nigeria’s e-commerce sector. In 2024, he tackled challenges such as logistics inefficiencies, exchange rate instability, and corruption, helping Konga’s efficiency in the industry. 

Under his leadership, Konga introduced solutions like Konga Prime, a subscription-based delivery service offering unlimited free delivery, and KongaPay, a secure digital payment platform enhancing financial inclusion.

Ekeh’s creative approach has transformed Konga into a hybrid e-commerce model that combines online and offline retail. This model has bridged gaps in Nigeria’s diverse market, providing logistical support through Konga Express and expanding product categories to take care of evolving customer needs. Again, Konga has onboarded numerous Nigerian SMEs, supporting local businesses and enabling economic growth.

In 2024, Ekeh led youth empowerment and technology adoption, recognising Africa’s youthful population as key drivers of change. His advocacy for intra-African trade and blockchain technology further accentuates his drive to leverage innovation for economic growth. With his exceptional foresight and leadership, Prince Nnamdi Ekeh is among the top entrepreneurs to watch in 2025.

Cybersecurity

7. Samuel Ubido

Samuel Ubido’s accomplishments have strengthened his standing as a thought leader in cybersecurity and fintech investments. As a Chartered Engineer with the Institution of Engineering and Technology, his expertise spans decades of engineering and cybersecurity merit. In 2024, he joined First Circle Capital as a Venture Partner, focusing on African fintech investments.

His influence extended globally as he led key panels at GITEX AFRICA, Fintech Surge, and Money20/20 Middle East, addressing topics like financial inclusion and cybersecurity. Samuel also launched his YouTube channel, Cyber Monday with Sam, where he shares insights into cybersecurity and innovation.

At Techinnovate Group, Samuel facilitated investor roundtables and strategic partnerships for organisations like NITDA Nigeria, Kigali International Financial Centre, and Wema Bank Plc. The company plans to launch a Cybersecurity Conference and Training Programs to develop talent and protect critical assets in 2025, collaborate with the University of Oxford to offer an Offline Education System, providing global access to quality education and strengthen trade links between the Middle East and Africa, providing African startups and SMEs with mentorship and funding.

Samuel’s ability to merge technical expertise with investment vision has placed him among the top entrepreneurs to watch in 2025. 

Aviation 

8. Chukwuerika Achum

As the CEO of Nigerian business aviation firm Vivajets, Chukwuerika Achum is driving integration and connectivity across Africa. In 2024, Vivajets showcased its innovative edge by attending the Africa CEO Forum in Kigali, Rwanda, where Achum highlighted the role of business aviation in overcoming Africa’s logistical and geographical challenges. The firm’s digital platforms, CharterXE and FlyPJX, have boosted private aviation by making it more accessible and affordable.

Vivajets also made a move into the fashion industry during the 2024 Lagos Fashion Week, debuting exclusive cabin crew attire designed by Ivorian designer Loza Maléombho. Inspired by the African Kinkeliba tree, the uniforms seamlessly blended cultural heritage with luxury, cementing Vivajets as a symbol of African elegance and innovation.

Achum also took part in the Invest in Africa Conference (AFSIC) in London and announced Vivajets’ sponsorship of the Africa Financial Summit (AFIS) 2024 in Casablanca, Morocco. Under his leadership, Vivajets has expanded its fleet, grown its global routes, and strengthened its place in the $1.09 billion African business aviation market, projected to reach $2.14 billion by 2030.

Digital Assets

9. Chuta Chimezie

Chuta Chimezie is a force in Africa’s blockchain and tech innovation sectors. He is the founder of the Blockchain Nigeria User Group (BNUG) and CEO of BlockSpace Technology Innovation Hub, who has built communities focused on blockchain exploration and development. In 2024, BNUG hosted Nigeria’s largest blockchain and cryptocurrency events, promoting education and collaboration within the industry.

Chimezie also had academic achievements, completing a pre-MSc program in Blockchain and Digital Currency at the University of Nicosia, Cyprus, and continuing an MSc in Cryptocurrency. His book, Seizing Opportunities in Blockchain & Digital Currency Revolution, is a definitive guide for enthusiasts walking through the complex blockchain industry.

As an advocate for open-source technologies, Chimezie has spent nearly a decade training individuals in Drupal and other open-source platforms. His upcoming book, Building Blocks of Blockchain StartUP Entrepreneurs, focuses on empowering the next generation of tech leaders. 

Interestingly, his expertise includes 3D printing, robotics, and drone technologies, making him a multifaceted innovator to watch in 2025.

Communications | PR

10. Ayeni Adekunle

Ayeni Adekunle, founder and CEO of BlackHouse Media (BHM), showed his ability to lead the communications sector to new levels in 2024.

Under his stewardship, BHM was listed by Financial Times among the fastest-growing companies in Africa for the second consecutive year. 

The FT ranking, which evaluates the compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of independent African companies, affirmed BHM’s solid revenue growth and strategic market expansion.

Ayeni’s vision to create a global communications services company rooted in Africa is gaining traction, bolstered by BHM’s innovative initiatives such as the continent’s first PR & Communications Report and the World PR Day celebrated annually on July 16. His company’s data-driven approach and resilience in the African business industry have placed him among the top entrepreneurs to watch in 2025.

Not just BHM, Ayeni’s contributions to the broader marketing and entertainment sectors through platforms like TheNETng and the Nigeria Entertainment Conference (NEC Live) have also been recognized. With his longstanding track record, Ayeni is one of the innovators building Africa’s communications and media industries.

The post 10 Entrepreneurs to Watch in 2025 appeared first on Tech | Business | Economy.

BHM, based in Africa and Europe, in a release said the Company won the award for the second consecutive year.

The prestigious FT ranking, rapidly becoming one of the critical barometers of business success across the African continent, recognises BHM’s stellar performance and solidifies its position as one of the nation’s corporate frontrunners.

The list ranks independent African companies by their organic, internally stimulated compound annual growth rate (CAGR) in revenue for the period under review.

Ayeni Adekunle, the founder and CEO of BHM, said that: “the incredible support from our clients and partners across the world has been instrumental in our growth.”

He noted that: “this recognition is further validation of our strategic vision, and our ambition to build the first truly global communications services company with African roots.”

He pointed out that “BHM’s inclusion in the FT ranking is another milestone, as the company continues to lead the industry with its innovative approach to communications.

“The company’s impressive financial performance, spearheaded by robust revenue growth and strategic market expansion, has captured the attention of industry analysts and investors alike.”

The head of the IMF’s Africa department, Abebe Selassie pointed out that despite the economic challenges in Africa within the period, many businesses still managed to survive, saying “much of the private sector, particularly the private sector that’s not directly reliant on government business, has shown incredible resilience.”

The ranking was created by the FT and Statista to showcase the continent’s private growth champions.

Also, Femi Falodun, the executive director, BHM Holdings, said, “this is a testament to the hard work of our people and the incredible support we have enjoyed from partners and clients.

BHM’s story demonstrates the immense potential that exists within the country’s vibrant communications sector.

The company’s ambitious plans for further expansion across Africa and beyond point towards an even brighter future.

BHM’s ability to capitalise on emerging opportunities while navigating the complexities of the African business landscape has solidified its reputation as a force to be reckoned with.

With research-led innovations such as the continent’s first PR & Communications Report (APCR), and the UK’s Cost of Living Survey, among others, the company has continuously exhibited its breadth for data-led solutions.

World PR Day (WPRD) which is celebrated every July 16, is also one of the company’s interventions in the global communications landscape.

The post FT names BHM among Fastest Growing Firms in Africa appeared first on Tech | Business | Economy.

A new survey of over 10,000 communication professionals in Africa will shed more light on the most critical problems facing the sector and the continent.

This is according to BHM Research and Intelligence, which is producing the first-ever Africa PR and Communications Report in partnership with leading global bodies like the Chartered Institute of Public Relations (UK), Public Relations and Communications Association (PRCA), Association of Advertising Agencies of Nigeria), and over 18 others.

In 2021 alone, the market capitalisation of Africa’s top companies increased by 69% to nearly $710 billion. With an estimated population of 1.3 billion people – more than 60% under the age of 25 – it has become critical to understand the role the communications industry plays within these figures, the industry’s impact over the years, and what to expect as the world’s perception of, and relationship with, Africa continues to evolve.

The research, spanning eight countries across five geographic zones, and incorporating surveys, focus group discussions (FGDs), qualitative analysis, and essay contributions from professionals across the continent, kicked off in April 2022.

Ayeni Adekunle, BHM founder and research committee chair says, “Insufficient research and feedback is a major concern for most, if not all, African industries. We understand this challenge, and the APCR committee, in partnership with consultants across the continent, have an onus to fill this gap.”

BHM, one of Africa’s leading communications consultancies, spearheads this research with support from committee members – Stephen Waddington, Eniola Harrison, Moliehi Molekoa and Femi Falodun.

C2M Solutions, an African research company, is the sole researcher on the project. The company combines its research capabilities and in-depth knowledge of the African ecosystem with the APCR committee’s expertise.

The survey includes six groups of 31 questions – gleaned from insights from FGDs and in-depth interviews in four African countries –  specifically designed to identify and address some of the most important global and continental issues affecting the practice of PR and Communications on the continent.

With responses expected from all 54 African countries, the report will serve as a guide to the African PR and Communications landscape. It will highlight opportunities and challenges in the market, assess the impact of social and digital media channels, and predict the industry’s future. It will also provide insight for businesses looking to expand into or enter the African market.

One of the APCR ’s goals for this survey is to provide valuable insights into how mass migration will affect the growth of the communications industry and the general business landscape in Africa in the coming years. The report also seeks to provide significant insights into the other issues related to talent in PR and Communications in Africa.

Africa’s technology ecosystem is currently experiencing a brain drain.

According to the 2021 Africa Developer Ecosystem report by Google, about 38 per cent of African developers work in Africa for a company with its headquarters outside the continent. Software engineers are also migrating due to low pay and limited opportunities.

Data from the Africa Center for Strategic Studies shows that since 2010, almost 20 million Africans have migrated out of the continent, with 11 million Africans migrating to Europe, five million to the Middle East and three million to North America.

As expected, the emigration of more young people from the continent will impact several industries, including marketing and communications. With increased emigration, the PR and communications industry is likely to lose more talent that could revolutionise the sector.

APCR is in partnership with 21 associations, schools and companies across ten countries –  the Chartered Institute of Public Relations (CIPR), CIPR International, Association of Advertising Agencies Of Nigeria (AAAN), Public Relations and Communications Association (PRCA), Africa Communications Week (ACW), International Communications Consultancy Organisation (ICCO), Women In PR Ghana (WIPRG), Magna Carta Reputation Management Consultants, Wadds Inc., African Public Relations Association (APRA), Associaçã de Profissionais de Relaçoes Públicas de Moçambique (APRPM), Global Mind Consulting, Nigerian Women in PR, Uganda Marketers Society, Cameroon Association Of Women In Media (AFMEC), Rwanda Communications Network, Uganda Advertising Association, Central University Ghana, BHM UK, BHM, ID Africa and Plaqad.Inc.

According to APCR Committee Adviser Eniola Harrison, the Africa PR and Communications Report “will provide the industry with the right insights and data that will equip business owners, government officials, PR and communications professionals and practitioners to make better-informed decisions. Invariably leading to better opportunities and outcomes.”

The post APCR: Talent Could Be African PR & Communications Industry’s Biggest Challenge appeared first on Tech | Business | Economy.

The company today announced it is building a media and public relations tool – PresOfis, to help individuals and organizations execute their media relations better.

PresOfis will be available to those who join the waitlist from June 16, 2022. Interested users can sign up on the waitlist on presofis.plaqad.com.

PresOfis is only the latest offer from Plaqad, following the launch of PlaqadM, the marketplace for the marketing and corporate communications community; and PlaqadIQ which helps users track and analyse activities and campaigns in real-time.

Already being dubbed as ‘the Cision of Africa’, Plaqad is working to help public relations and communications professionals deliver better value by combining the power of technology and human intelligence.

‘It’s media relations on steroids’, says Ayeni Adekunle, Plaqad founder. ‘We’re building a community where content creators, PR agencies, in-house Comms teams, consultants, brands, celebrities, and publicists can co-create with journalists, bloggers, and influencers in an environment of trust and mutual benefit.’

Users are able to collaborate and exchange services through PlaqadM, and track ongoing campaigns using the analytics feature PlaqadIQ.

What PresOfis brings, according to Ayeni, is ‘‘an ability to write, edit, and publish, and pitch content, search our media database for journalists, bloggers, influencers, or media platforms, be confident that your pitch delivers to the right inbox, and use our tips and tools to make sure you hear back, and secure coverage.’’

‘‘Users will also be able to follow up on syndicated content and directly communicate with contacts through optional direct messaging.’’

The post Plaqad Announces Waitlist for PresOfis, a New Media and Public Relations Tool appeared first on Tech | Business | Economy.

The awards will be presented at the Africa SABRE award ceremony on May 25, 2022, as part of the 2022 African Public Relations Conference. 

The SABRE Awards is an annual international competition that recognises outstanding work in the public relations industry across Europe, the Middle East and Africa.

The awards programme recognises superior achievement in branding, reputation and engagement and honours the work of communications professionals across EMEA.

The wins are in recognition of MTN Nigeria’s stellar Stakeholder Engagement and Superior Achievement in Measurement and Evaluation for its public offer of ordinary shares to retail investors in December 2021.

 The two projects, helmed by BHM represented a period of ensured improved government relations and financial growth for the company.

MTN Nigeria’s retail offer to sell up to 575 million of the company’s shares was the first in Nigeria to be delivered via a digital platform, Primary Offer. By leveraging technology, the company aimed to facilitate the maximum possible participation by Nigerian investors.

Upon announcement of the results of the public offer, it was revealed that there was an oversubscription of the shares by 139.47%, which led to the activation of the approved 15% greenshoe of an additional 86.25 million MTN Nigeria shares.

As a result, a total of 661.25 million MTN Nigeria shares were allotted, comprising the 575 million Offer shares and the 86.25 million greenshoe.

In addition, 76% of successful applicants from the digital platform are women while 85% are youths under the age of 40.  

Speaking on behalf of the company, Chief Corporate Services Officer, MTN Nigeria, Tobechukwu Okigbo, said, “BHM’s recognition at the SABRE awards this year is a delight to us. The awards reinforce BHM & MTN’s commitment to best practice in communications and corporate affairs.”

“BHM won the awards based on campaigns they ran for MTN. It is a testament to our commitment to championing digital inclusion as a strategic driver for social and economic development in Nigeria. We will continue to work with our partners to create innovative solutions that accelerate our strategic objectives while delivering on our vision of leading the delivery of a bold new digital world in our markets and communities,” he concluded. 

The award makes MTN Nigeria the only Nigerian telecommunications company nominated at the 2022 SABRE EMEA Awards, receiving two nominations in the Capital Markets Communications and the Crisis Communications categories.

This year, the SABRE awards attracted more than 5,000 entries of public relations and marketing campaigns from across the globe and were judged by a panel of senior industry experts including Allan Kamau of Weber Shandwick, Bidemi Zakariyau of LSF PR, Carol Warui of Ogilvy Africa, Israel Opayemi of Chain Reactions Nigeria and Karena Crerar of Edelman South Africa, amongst others for Africa and Emily Gosen of Ketchum, Georgina Wolfson of Samsung, Ioana Gorganeanu of Mastercard, and Linnéa Rinäs of Amazon amongst others for the EMEA region. 

Speaking on the nominations, Paul Holmes, chair of the SABRE jury, said: “It is fair to say that we have never seen so much good work from so many firms, including international agencies with growing African operations, and indigenous firms from multiple markets.” 

“What we have seen over the past few years in Africa is the investment of large multinationals in the continent, but also a wave of African entrepreneurship that has seen local firms across the continent producing high-quality creative and driving impressive media coverage and social engagement for their clients,” he added.

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