Across every major sector of Kenya’s economy and public life, women are leading change and delivering results. The 2025 Gala Awards Dinner for the 50 Most Influential Women in Kenya brought this reality to the forefront, honoring trailblazers who continue to uplift communities, inspire future generations and push the nation forward.
Held in a spirit of elegance and excellence, the Gala was more than just a celebration, it was a reminder of the powerful role women play in shaping Kenya’s present and future. From top executives in the corporate world to health professionals, media leaders, educators, entrepreneurs and public servants, the women honored represent the full spectrum of national development.
This high-level event, hosted by Africapitol Ventures, brought together dignitaries, business leaders, influencers and changemakers under one roof for an evening of storytelling, keynote speeches and formal recognition. Each woman recognized has not only excelled in her field but also used her influence to uplift others and drive meaningful progress.
Africapitol Ventures, the firm behind this initiative, is on a mission to celebrate African excellence both on the continent and across the diaspora. Since its founding in June 2022 by Suleiman Ndoro Chidunga Jnr, known as Dr. Audi, Africapitol has become a platform that amplifies the voices and achievements of Africans making a difference. The 50 Most Influential Women in Kenya Gala aligns with that mission by recognizing women whose impact extends far beyond their professional roles.
Speaking about the purpose of the event, Dr. Audi shared that Africapitol exists to give Africans a place of hope, inspiration and energy, a platform that not only acknowledges success but also encourages others to pursue it.
Africapitol’s first event, the Kwale Excellence Awards in July 2022, set the tone for what has now become a tradition of celebrating African brilliance. The 2025 Gala builds on that foundation by not only recognizing excellence but also creating connections across industries and generations.
The event’s impact extends beyond the awardees themselves. By highlighting women who are shaping national discourse, building businesses, influencing policy and advancing social change, the Gala creates a ripple effect. It helps redefine leadership, opens doors for mentorship and encourages inclusive participation in Kenya’s development journey.
The 50 women honored at the 2025 Gala come from a wide range of sectors and backgrounds but they all share a common thread, their work is creating impact. Whether it is running multi-million-dollar companies, leading humanitarian efforts, pushing boundaries in technology, championing disability rights or mentoring the next generation, these women represent the strength and resilience of Kenya.
As the applause echoed and spotlights shone during the award presentations, the message was clear: this is Kenya’s moment to recognize the women who are actively building its future. The Gala wasn’t just about status, it was about service, substance and sustained impact.
The evening closed with a renewed sense of possibility. It was not only a time to look back and honor achievements but also a moment to look ahead, knowing that the work of these women is far from over. They are setting new standards and reminding the nation and the continent that progress accelerates when women lead.
Below is the full list of the 50 Most Influential Women in Kenya 2025, as recognized by Africapitol Ventures:
- Gwen Kinisu – CEO, Prudential Life Assurance
- Nyandia Gachago – Co-founder, MintyLime Agency
- Wanja Maina – Disability Rights Activist
- Wandia Gichuru – CEO, Vivo Fashion Group
- Sonia Kabra – Co-founder and Director, BuuPass
- Samana Dewji – Founder and Marketing Director, Chop It Express
- Raabia Hawa – Executive Director, Ulinzi Africa Foundation
- Prof. Laila Abubakar – Vice Chancellor, Technical University of Mombasa
- Pinky Ghelani – Founder, What Women Want Africa
- Peris Jepchirchir – Olympic Marathon Champion
- Nyambura Gichohi – CEO & Co-founder, Ikigai
- Njeri Jomo – CEO, Jubilee Health
- Murugi Munyi – Media Personality
- Moonika Jurgenfeldt – CEO, FX Pesa
- Monica Kiragu – News Director, Citizen TV
- Mary Wacuka – Director, Strategy and Operations, Optiven
- Mary Maalu – National Treasurer, Stima Sacco
- Mary W. Kimonye – Vice Chairperson, Public Service Commission
- Martha Karua – Party Leader, People’s Liberation Party
- Mariam Mpaata – Founder, Afrika Sports Foundation
- Major General Fatuma Ahmed – Commander, Kenya Air Force
- Dr. Joyce Omina – CEO, Institute of Internal Auditors
- Janet Mbugua – Media Personality, Nation Media
- Jamila Mohamed – Media Personality, Citizen TV
- Irene Kimacia – Head of Partnerships, IHRM
- Ikran Omar – Digital Creator
- Hannah Githuki – Personal Branding Coach/Author
- H.E. Gladys Wanga – Governor, Homa Bay
- Florence Nyole – President, Architectural Society of Kenya
- Esther Waititu – CFSO, Safaricom PLC
- Eng. Maureen Mwaniki – Director, Public Affairs & Chairlady, Huawei
- Dr. Salma Naji – Medical Doctor/Humanitarian
- Dr. Paula Mwende – MD, Easton Pharmacy, Digital Health Content Creator
- Dr. Lyudymila Scchukina – CEO/Founder, Nairobi Bariatric
- Dr. Lorraine Muluka – Obstetrician Gynecologist, Co-founder/CEO, Malaica
- Dr. Elizabeth Okemwa – General Surgeon/Career Educator
- Dr. Asha Mohammed – IFRC’s Permanent Representative to the AU & International Organizations
- Dr. Anne R. Gitau – CEO, Salaries and Remuneration Commission
- Damaris Ndungwa – Director OD & Learning, Blue Concepts Africa
- Christine Njoki – Founder & CEO, IKOJN
- Catherine Musakali – Founder & Chairlady, Women on Boards Network
- Yasmin Mohamed – Founder & CEO, Cake Hearts International Hospitality Institute
- Angela Waweru – Founder, Heels4Pads Foundation
- Amina Abdallah – Founder, MWEN, Mental Wellbeing Advocate
- Alice Wathika – Lake Turkana Wind Power
- Carole Kinoti – Founder, Carole Kinoti Brands
- Dr. Anne Phoebe Njagi – Chairlady, Women in Business, KNCCI
- Linda Kwamboka – Co-founder, M-Farm Limited
- Lillian Ngala – HR Director, Diamond Trust Bank
- Asha Mweru Mbowa – MD, AMI Enterprise
