Celebrating Excellence at the 2025 West Africa Regional Magazine Pre-Awards

The vibrant city of Accra, Ghana, witnessed a remarkable gathering as the 2025 West Africa Regional Magazine (TWARM) Pre-Awards Ceremony unfolded. This prestigious event aimed to honor some of the most innovative and driven Ghanaian entrepreneurs from various sectors.

Recognizing Achievements in Business

The core essence of the TWARM Pre-Awards was to celebrate individuals and enterprises distinguished by their remarkable achievements, commitment to excellence, and significant contributions to their fields. This year’s honorees included a diverse roster of leaders, such as the current President of Ghana, John Dramani Mahama; the Chief Executive of the Import and Export Bank, Mr. Silvester Mensah; and GA Mantse King Tackie Teiko Tsuru. Notable politicians from Nigeria were also recognized, including Delta State Governor H.E. Elder Sheriff Francis Orohwedo Oborevwori, alongside various commissioners and business figures.

Among the awardees, special recognition was given to Mr. Adu Koranteng, the Managing Director of Kingdom Books and Stationery and Publisher/CEO of the National Voice Newspaper. His contributions to investigative journalism have set a high standard in Ghana. Additionally, Akwaba Mineral Water proudly claimed the title of Product of the Year. Other sponsors and awardees included Brilla Connect, JA Biney, and Dangote, all of whom contributed to the event’s outstanding celebration.

A Platform for Networking and Growth

The awards ceremony took place at the elegant Charleston Hotel Ltd in Tesano, Accra, providing the perfect backdrop for networking and collaboration among business leaders and political dignitaries. Speaking at the event, Ambassador Rossette Aliu, the Publisher/CEO of TWARM, emphasized the magazine’s unwavering commitment to elevating the West African sub-region. She articulated how highlighting influential business and political leaders is essential for fostering intra-regional trade and attracting global investment.

“We are here to celebrate those who have propelled this sub-region forward,” Aliu stated, underscoring the significance of recognizing corporations that demonstrate outstanding performance while adhering to social and environmental responsibilities.

Insights from a Visionary Leader

A highlight of the event was the keynote address delivered by Sylvie Marthe Potignon, a Franco-Congolese entrepreneur. Potignon’s insights into the critical role of African business leaders as connectors between Africa and global markets were particularly resonant. She emphasized how leveraging places like Dubai—an international commercial hub—can significantly benefit African enterprises navigating an increasingly complex global economy.

Potignon’s diverse background, from earning a business degree in France to managing family businesses in Central Africa, has uniquely positioned her to understand the intricacies of global trade. Her work spans various countries and sectors, including hospitality in the Republic of Congo and cybersecurity in the Democratic Republic of Congo, showcasing her commitment to enhancing African businesses.

Challenges and Opportunities in a Global Landscape

Potignon offered a pragmatic viewpoint about the evolving business environment post-COVID-19, urging her audience to adapt to the rapid digitization of markets. With the threats of cyberattacks and fraud looming, she emphasized the importance of building robust systems to protect businesses during cross-border operations.

Furthermore, Potignon’s advocacy for women in business was palpable. She illuminated the essential nature of continuous learning and awareness of global trends, asserting that isolation undermines leadership capabilities in an interconnected world.

The Need for Sustainability and Succession Planning

Beyond the individual accolades, the TWARM Pre-Awards also initiated discussions around sustainability in African businesses. Potignon highlighted a significant challenge: business continuity and succession planning. Many African enterprises struggle to survive beyond their original founders, often facing dissolution or sale due to unstructured succession plans.

She articulated critical strategies, such as preparing the next generation and establishing governance frameworks, to foster long-lasting legacies. Her foresight positions today’s entrepreneurs as key players in shaping Africa’s economic future.

Advocacy for Democratic Governance

Mr. Adu Koranteng, one of the awardees and Editor of the National Voice Newspaper, echoed a crucial sentiment about the synergy between democracy and economic development. He lauded the role of democratic governance in empowering citizens, securing fundamental rights, and promoting accountability among leaders.

Koranteng’s call to action emphasized collective responsibility in maintaining and promoting democratic systems across Africa. He reinforced that democratic governance not only empowers individuals to elect their leaders but also cultivates an environment for economic and social advancement.

The Path Forward

While challenges remain, the spirit of innovation and cooperation displayed at the TWARM Pre-Awards underscores an optimistic outlook for Ghanaian entrepreneurs and their capacity to contribute meaningfully to both local and international markets. The firm belief within this community is that through collaboration, recognition, and sustainable practices, the foundations for a prosperous economic future can be built, fostering a legacy for generations to come.

The event stands as a reminder that recognizing excellence in business and governance is integral to fostering an environment where growth and cooperation thrive.