Johannesburg: African Power and Energy Elites has officially rebranded as the African Infrastructure Elites: People and Projects, reflecting its evolving reach and the interconnected systems supporting Africa's socioeconomic growth. While power and energy remain central, the platform now offers a broader space to recognize leadership, innovation, and delivery across essential infrastructure sectors, including energy, water, and transport.
According to African Press Organization, the initiative is entering its 11th edition and has built a legacy of showcasing professionals and projects contributing to the continent. Previous editions have profiled utility executives, engineers, developers, financiers, policymakers, emerging professionals, and project teams improving infrastructure access and sustainability. The rebrand builds on this legacy, creating opportunities to tell stories behind Africa's infrastructure transformation.
The African Infrastructure Elites will continue recognizing leaders and rising stars, as well as projects across categories such as grid-tied and off-grid infrastructure, smart and digital solutions, clean transport (rail, road, air, shipping), energy at mines, water and sanitation, and finance and investment.
An Advisory Board, consisting of experienced industry professionals, will review each nomination. The board's independent vetting process ensures credibility and that selected people and projects demonstrate meaningful achievement, innovation, and impact. The board includes Chanda Nxumalo of Harmattan Renewables, George Aluru of ESAK, Gordon Molefe of Business4U Consultants, Ifey Ikoneu, an energy consultant from Ghana, Suleiman Babamanu of RMI, and Yolanda Mabuto of Divaine Growth Solutions.
Selected nominees will be featured in the African Infrastructure Elites: People and Projects 2026/2027 publication and promoted through ESI Africa's digital channels and industry events. The online library will continue to provide access to previous editions, preserving a record of individuals and projects shaping Africa's infrastructure landscape.
Organizations and individuals are invited to nominate colleagues, partners, industry leaders, rising professionals, or projects demonstrating tangible results and potential for replication across Africa. Nominations for the 2026/2027 edition close on 2 October 2026.
This year's theme, Access and Affordability empower security for All, addresses Africa's development imperatives. Reliable and affordable access to energy, clean water, and sustainable transport is fundamental to economic growth, social well-being, and long-term resilience.
