Dr. Ekrah Ndung'u Graces the 11th Elite Brands Awards International Gala Dinner

Dr. Ekrah Ndung'uwas among the distinguished guests who graced the 11th Elite Brands Awards International Gala Dinner on Friday evening at the Argyle Grand Hotel, Nairobi, where East Africa's leading organizations, entrepreneurs, institutions and business leaders were recognized for their outstanding achievements in leadership, innovation, customer service, corporate governance and social impact.

The prestigious continental event, organized by  Jubilant Stewards of Africa (JSA)  in partnership with the  United SMEs Association of Kenya,  Pacesetters International Research and Consultancy Ltd , and other strategic partners, brought together an influential gathering of government leaders, corporate executives, entrepreneurs, development partners and professionals from across Africa. Beyond celebrating excellence, the gala provided a platform for networking, collaboration and the exchange of ideas aimed at advancing Africa's economic transformation.

The awards employ the Organisational Performance Index (OPI), a rigorous assessment framework that evaluates leadership effectiveness, innovation, ethical governance, operational excellence, customer satisfaction and societal impact, making the Elite Brands Awards International one of the continent's most credible recognition platforms.

Speaking during the ceremony, Jared Oundo, Executive Director of Jubilant Stewards of Africa, praised the award recipients for exemplifying visionary leadership and a commitment to excellence, noting that they continue to shape a more prosperous and sustainable future for Africa through ethical business practices and meaningful community impact.

The event's Chief Guest, Cabinet Secretary for Co-operatives and MSME Development, Hon. Wycliffe Oparanya, reaffirmed the Government's commitment to strengthening Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) through progressive policies, affordable financing, capacity-building programmes and expanded market access. He emphasized that trust, innovation and ethical leadership remain the cornerstones of resilient and globally competitive brands.

Awards were presented across a wide range of sectors, including manufacturing, engineering, financial services, healthcare, education, logistics, real estate, hospitality, technology, renewable energy, construction, agriculture and entrepreneurship. Outstanding organizations and individuals from Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Ghana and other African countries were honoured for their excellence in innovation, leadership, operational performance and social responsibility.

The evening also highlighted Africa's growing role in driving economic transformation, regional integration and job creation. As the ceremony concluded, the organizers reaffirmed their commitment to expanding the reach of the Elite Brands Awards International and strengthening a culture of excellence that inspires organizations and leaders across the continent.

Dr. Ekrah Ndung'u's presence at the gala underscored her support for initiatives that recognize excellence, celebrate transformative leadership and promote sustainable growth across Africa's public and private sectors.