African CEO Forum Award releases its 2015 shortlist

Six companies have been shortlisted for this year’s third edition of the African CEO Forum Award.

The Africa CEO Forum Awards are organised under the African Development Bank and Groupe Jeune Afrique, to recognise companies that have ambitious objectives and contribute to growth in Africa.

Leading the shortlisted firms is the Africa Internet Group (AIG) that has notably only been in operation for less than three years supporting online retail firms like Kaymu Tanzania which was nominated for the International Corporation of the year award.

Other shortlisted firms are Coca-Cola, Allianz, Axa, Odebrecht, QNB, Danone and Rio Tinto.

According to a press statement availed to this paper over the weekend in Dar es Salaam said the nominees were chosen for their commitment to and their achievements in promoting the African private sector and developing intra-African trade.

 “Africa Internet Group, the leading internet company in Africa, promotes sustainable long-term online growth that benefits both businesses and consumers.

AIG runs successful and vibrant internet companies by creating jobs, improving logistics, infrastructure, and offering education opportunities through their team of more than 6,000 people all over Africa,” read part of the statement adding: “Its network of companies includes Kaymu, Hellofood, Lamudi, Carmudi, Zando, Jumia, Jovago and Easy Taxi.”

"We are honoured to be nominated only two years after the launch of AIG. We are glad that our efforts towards propelling the evolution of African online culture and our contribution to the stunning rise of the e-commerce market in Africa are recognised among all these market leaders,” said Sacha Poignonnec, co-CEO Africa Internet Group.

Erfaan Mojgani, Kaymu Tanzania’s country manager said "Kaymu Tanzania is very proud to be part of AIG, a company that has gained such recognition for its successes within such a short time.

The nomination for this prestigious award is a clear indication that e-commerce is a strong trend across Tanzania and the whole continent. Kaymu Tanzania is proud to contribute to this great adventure through our rapid growth," added Erfaan.

Updates availed to this paper yesterday noted Danone, a food industry company took home the award at a ceremony held in Geneva.