Nominations Open for ESI Africa’s 11th African Infrastructure Elites 2026/2027

​Nominations are officially open for the 11th edition of the African Infrastructure Elites: Projects and People, brought to you by ESI Africa, part of VUKA Group (www.WeAreVUKA.com).

The annual initiative celebrates the visionary leaders, emerging talent and transformative projects making a measurable difference across Africa’s power, energy, water and transport sectors. From utility executives and engineers to project developers, innovators and financiers, the Elites recognises those helping to expand access, strengthen infrastructure and accelerate sustainable development across the continent.

Access and Affordability empowers security for All

This year’s theme, Access and Affordability empower security for All, speaks directly to one of Africa’s most pressing development imperatives. Reliable and affordable access to energy and power, clean potable water and sanitation, and sustainable and clean transport remains fundamental to economic growth, social wellbeing and long-term resilience.

Nominations are invited across a range of categories, including:

• Leadership and Rising Stars
• Grid-tied and Off-grid Projects
• Smart and Digital Solutions
• Clean Transport and Energy at Mines
• Water and Sanitation
• Finance and Investment

Successful nominees will be considered for inclusion in the African Infrastructure Elites 2026/2027 publication, supported by exposure through ESI Africa’s multimedia platforms, industry events, webinars and dedicated social media campaigns.

Organisations and individuals may nominate colleagues, industry partners, innovative projects or their own work. Strong submissions should clearly demonstrate the project or leader’s achievements, impact, innovation and the potential for the work to be replicated elsewhere in Africa.

All entries will be independently evaluated on merit by the African Elites Advisory Board, comprising respected experts from across the industry.

Nominations close on 2 October 2026. Late submissions will not be accepted.

Nominate an outstanding person or project and help celebrate the African visionaries building a more reliable, inclusive and sustainable future.

Submit a nomination: (https://apo-opa.co/4wo3CyF)