London, United Kingdom – July 9-10, 2025
The African banking sector witnessed a moment of profound pride and recognition as Dr. Aklilu Wubet (PhD), Chief Executive Officer of Wegagen Bank, was honoured with the Africa Banking Leadership Excellence Award at the just-concluded Africa Summit and Business Leadership Awards held on 9th and 10th July 2025 at The Landmark London Hotel and the UK House of Lords, respectively.
In a further testament to his outstanding leadership and international impact, Dr. Wubet was also decorated with a Special Congressional Commendation from the State of South Carolina, United States of America, a rare and prestigious recognition awarded to distinguished individuals making measurable contributions to leadership, community development, and global economic progress.
The high-level summit brought together an illustrious audience, including H.E. Jakaya Kikwete, former President of Tanzania and Chair of the African Leadership Organisation (ALO) Global Advisory Board; Dr. Ken Giami, CEO of the African Leadership Organisation; sitting ministers from across the African continent; state governors; business and political elites; as well as top members of the global academia.
In one of the most impactful moments of the event, Dr. Wubet delivered a stirring keynote presentation on the theme “Banking on Africa’s Future: Catalysing Investment and Competitiveness through Financial Leadership.” His insights, drawn from deep industry experience and a visionary outlook, captured the imagination of attendees and reinforced his standing as one of Africa’s most forward-thinking financial leaders.
These dual recognitions, both continental and transatlantic, are not just personal milestones for Dr. Wubet but also a glowing endorsement of the transformative work being done at Wegagen Bank, one of Ethiopia’s leading financial institutions. Under his stewardship, the bank has not only solidified its domestic relevance but is steadily becoming a symbol of African excellence on the global financial stage.
For Ethiopia, this moment marks another step in asserting its rightful place in the league of nations producing globally respected thought leaders and economic change-makers. For Africa, it is a validation of the continent’s growing influence, resilience, and the power of homegrown leadership in redefining global narratives.
As the applause fades and the accolades are hung, the message is clear: African excellence is not a promise; it is a reality, personified by leaders like Dr. Aklilu Wubet.
Congratulations, Dr. Wubet, on this well-deserved honour. Africa salutes you.
