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Born from a multi-generational and holistic pathway for communities across Africa.
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About ASO Awards
In the heart of Africa, a remarkable transformation igniting powerful forces for change, embodying the very essence of The African Spirit.— “The Africa Sustainability Outliers (ASO) Awards”. These awards go beyond mere accolades, they recognise and celebrate the visionaries, the innovators, and the change-makers who are propelling Africa toward a sustainable and prosperous future.
The ASO Awards is a beacon of hope for the African Spirit, a catalyst for change, and a testament to the exceptional and tireless efforts of Africans rewriting Africas narrative. We believe that by honoring and showcasing these accomplishments, we inspire a ripple effect of positive change that spreads far beyond the boundaries of our ceremony.
Philosophy
At the core of the ASO Awards is a philosophy deeply rooted in the Ubuntu Spirit.
Mission
To honor, inspire, and celebrate the impact of Africans and institutions driving Sustainability Excellence.
Vision
Our vision is a thriving Africa where the achievements of today’s outliers inspire and empower generations to come.
Objectives
Profound Commitment to shaping a brighter and better future for Africa
The Africa Sustainability Outliers (ASO) Awards are driven by a profound commitment to advancing sustainability across Africa. These awards are more than just accolades; they are instrumental in shaping a brighter and more sustainable future for Africa.
Recognize
To acknowledge and celebrate the outstanding efforts and achievements of individuals and institutions driving the sustainable agenda of Africa.
Role Modeling
To leverage role models who can serve as examples for others, showcasing the possibilities and benefits of sustainable practices and encouraging wider adoption of such approaches.
Awareness
To raise awareness about the urgency to address land degradation, climate crisis, disasters; and their impacts on biodiversity, ecosystems and livelihoods.
Networking and Collaboration
To provide a platform for individuals to connect, collaborate, and share experiences, fostering a community of sustainability champions who can learn from each other and drive collective action.
Inspire
To inspire and motivate others by showcasing the accomplishments and stories of these individuals and institutions, demonstrating the potential for individuals and institutions to drive change and contribute to a more sustainable future Africa.
Celebrating African Excellence
We shine a spotlight on the outstanding individuals and institutions that are driving positive change across the African continent.
Aso Awards History
Our initiative has spanned out from the Hard work and dedication of The One Billion Trees For Africa Initiative.
One Billion Trees for Africa, has been in the fore front undertaking initiatives that aim to combat climate crisis, land and ecosystem degradation, biodiversity loss and promotes environmental sustainability across Africa. Born from a multi-generational and multifaced commitment to creating a sustainable path for local communities, the initiative has achieved significant milestones between 2010 and 2023 including the growth of 3.7 million trees, restoration of over 800 hectares of land, and the creation of over 500 land-based and ecosystem jobs across accomplishments have been realized in 117 communities spanning 13 countries in Africa.
We have identified exemplary individuals and institutions who have made exceptional contributions towards promoting sustainability in Africa.
Exemplary Awardees
Individuals and Institutions whose exceptional contributions have left an Indelible mark.
H.E. Amb. Khadija Almakhzoumi, MP
Honourable Amb. Khadija Mohamed Almakhzoumi is the Minister of Environment and Climate Change, Somalia serving with over 15 years as a liaison for her country on international issues such as resolving complex issues, negotiating, resource mobilization, conflict resolution, and aiding Somalian citizens.
Hon Mobolaji Ogunlende
Mobolaji is a sustainable development enthusiast, committed to principles of environmental safety, and resilience. He is an Honourable Commissioner for the Ministry of Youth and Social Development. He launched the R.A.K (Real Acts of Kindness) Development Foundation in 2016 and since then has initiated and partnered projects that have covered 15 of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
H.E Mohammed Umaru Bago
His Excellency Mohammed Umaru Bago is paving the way for sustainability through Improved livelihood and Good Governance which focuses primarily on Security, Education, Science and Technology, Agriculture, Commerce and Attracting Investors, Tourism, Health, Infrastructure, Portable water, Transformation of Civil Service, Traditional Institutions Engagement, and Youth and Women Development amongst others, for a sustainable Niger for all.
Mr Harsen Nyamba
Mr. Harsen Nyambe is a Sustainable development and environmental resilience enthusiast with a great track record in promoting policies critical to Africa's socioeconomic development. His efforts save lives and property, secure livelihoods and build resilience to the effects of climate change and achieving sustainable development towards attaining agenda 2063.
Thandie Mwape Villadsen
Thandie Mwape is a Zambian National with global experience in international and development affairs. She is the Regional Humanitarian Diplomacy Coordinator (Africa Region) for the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies and is a lead policy advisor on climate change, ecosystem management, and related fields in disaster risk reduction and compounding risks in Africa (food security, migration, conflict, water security).
Estherine Lisinge Fotabong
Estherine Lisinge Fotabong is a respected Cameroonian development professional and leader in the field of sustainable development and environmental conservation in Africa. She has played a significant role in advancing initiatives and policies that promote sustainable development,
Dr Peter Akong Minang
Dr. Peter Akong Minang is the Director for Africa, Center for International Forestry Research & World Agroforestry (CIFOR-ICRAF). He is a thought leader in sustainable development on the continent, notably in the areas of climate change forestry and REDD+, ecosystems services, community forestry and landscape approaches.
Wanjira Mathai
Wanjira Mathai is the Managing Director for Africa and Global Partnerships at WRI and is the Bezos Earth Fund's Africa Advisor. She is an inspiring leader, Wanjira has over 20 years of experience advocating for social and environmental change on both local and international platforms. Over the years, Wanjira has also served important strategic and advocacy roles raising the prominence and visibility of global issues such as climate change, youth leadership, sustainable energy and landscape restoration.
