Kenya played host to the 9th edition of the prestigious Pacesetters International Awards (PIA) on 12th September 2025, a landmark event that brought together Africa’s most innovative small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and startups to celebrate excellence in leadership, sustainability, and societal impact.
Held in Nairobi, the gala awards dinner is organized annually by Jubilant Stewards of Africa (JSA) through Pacesetters International Research and Consultancy Ltd, in partnership with the United SMEs Association of Kenya. The event shines a spotlight on exceptional businesses and professionals who have demonstrated outstanding performance and contributed significantly to Africa’s economic growth.
This year’s awards featured a wide range of activities, including keynote speeches, panel discussions, and networking sessions, attracting entrepreneurs, investors, policymakers, and industry experts from across the continent. The program provided a dynamic platform for sharing insights on emerging business trends, investment opportunities, and the pivotal role of technology and sustainability in driving Africa’s SME sector forward.
Jared Oundo, Executive Director of Jubilant Stewards of Africa, hailed the shortlisted companies for setting new standards in innovation and sustainability. He highlighted the importance of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and the effective use of technology as key factors distinguishing this year’s winners.
“The Pacesetters International Awards serves as a benchmark for excellence, recognizing businesses that excel in leadership, innovation, customer service, and overall industry impact,” said Oundo. “We are proud to celebrate companies that have shown remarkable growth and resilience while positively transforming their sectors.”
Among the notable winners were prominent firms such as Safaricom, Nation Media Group, Kevian Kenya Ltd, and Rentco Africa, alongside new entrants like Username Properties Limited, Dr. Agarwal’s Eye Hospital, Synina Properties, and Texas Cancer Centre. Username Properties Limited received special recognition as the Trusted Leading Real Estate Company in Kenya. Their CEO, Sarah Wahogo, expressed gratitude for the award stating, “This recognition is a testament to the trust our clients place in us and motivates our continued drive to provide affordable, genuine properties that reshape the real estate industry.”
A keynote speech was issued by William Ojonyo, a representative of Oburu Odinga, the advisor to the president, economic empowerment and sustainable livelihood, he spoke on the great milestone of the awarded companies , their resilience and the commitment to driving a positive impact in the society.
The awards are known for their rigorous and transparent vetting process, which includes public voting, expert industry research, and panel reviews. This ensures that winners are selected based not only on financial success but also ethical business practices, innovation, and social responsibility. The Performance Index (OPI), a globally recognized benchmarking tool, underpins the evaluation to uphold the highest standards.
The event also served as a critical forum for thought leadership. Discussions focused on digital transformation, economic resilience, sustainable business models, and leveraging technology to create scalable solutions in Africa’s evolving markets. The platform encouraged collaborative projects and opened avenues for partnerships across various sectors.
Oundo used the event to urge the Kenyan government to implement more SME-friendly policies. He emphasized the need for initiatives that remove barriers for micro, small, and medium enterprises, including improved access to affordable credit and investments in the financial services sector to foster business growth.
Over the years, the Pacesetters International Awards have been held in premier venues across East Africa, including locations in Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania. The 2023 continental chapter was hosted at Serena Hotel in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, while the previous year’s event was held at Argyle Grand Hotel in Kenya.
The 2025 PIA proved once again why it is regarded as a leading platform for celebrating African entrepreneurship and business excellence. As the continent sees a surge in innovation-driven growth, events like PIA play a crucial role in recognizing and fueling the efforts of SMEs that drive economic transformation.
Jubilant Stewards of Africa plans to continue expanding the reach and impact of the awards, fostering an ecosystem that supports visionary leadership, responsible business, and sustainable development across Africa.
Mt Kenya Times 
Jerameel Kevins Owuor Odhiambo