26 - 28 August 2026
Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo
Honoring Excellence.
Celebrating Impact.
Shaping the Future of the DRC.
Join us for the inaugural DRC Elite Awards, a prestigious evening dedicated to the visionaries, investors, and leaders driving the Democratic Republic of Congo’s economic transformation.
Date: 28 August 2026
Venue: to be confirmed
Co-located with: The DRC Investment Forum
out the Awards
The Pinnacle of Recognition in the Heart of Africa The DRC Elite Awards is a high-level recognition platform established to honor the extraordinary individuals and institutions that define excellence in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
As a cornerstone of the DRC Invest Forum, these awards go beyond accolades; they shine a spotlight on the architects of progress. We celebrate those who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, pioneered innovative investment strategies, and implemented reforms that are building a more prosperous and resilient Congo.
About the Awards.
Award Categories
Business Leader of the Year
This category recognises an executive or entrepreneur who has demonstrated exceptional strategic foresight, corporate growth, and ethical leadership. The recipient is a pioneer who has not only achieved commercial success but has also significantly contributed to the DRC’s national economic agenda.
Woman in Leadership & Impact Award
Celebrating a woman who is breaking barriers and driving social and economic change. This category honors a female leader who demonstrates outstanding professional achievement while making a measurable impact on their communities and the next generation of Congolese talent.
Investor of the Year
This award honors an individual or institutional investor whose capital and confidence have catalysed significant development in the DRC. We look for those who have taken calculated risks to build infrastructure, create sustainable jobs, and unlock new value within the Congolese market.
NextGen
Entrepreneur of the Year
The future of the DRC belongs to the innovators. This award recognises a young entrepreneur (under 35) who is leveraging technology, creativity, and resilience to disrupt traditional industries and provide modern solutions to local challenges.
Public Sector Leadership & Reform Award
​Recognising excellence in governance. This award is presented to a public official or institution that has spearheaded transformative reforms, improved the "Ease of Doing Business," and fostered a transparent environment conducive to both local and international investment.
Woman in Leadership & Impact Award
​Progress happens in every corner of our nation. This award recognises a province or provincial initiative that has demonstrated exceptional impact in driving investment and economic development.
We recognize excellence across the sectors that power our nation.
Key Dates to Remember
Entry Deadline
15 May 2026
Finalist Announcement
Award Ceremony
22 June 2026
28 August 2026
The Selection Process
Rigour. Transparency. Excellence.
To ensure the highest level of integrity, the DRC Elite Awards follows a multi-stage selection process:
Public Nomination
Stakeholders and industry peers submit nominations
.
Shortlisting
Our technical committee reviews submissions against category-specific criteria.
The Jury
A panel of esteemed international and local judges selects the final winners.
The Announcements
Winners are revealed live during the DRC Invest Forum Gala Dinner on 28 August 2026.
Reach a highly targeted audience
through sponsorship and branding
Get your brand in front of some of the most influential business leaders in DRC. Sponsorship packages are tailored to fit any budget and based on specific needs. The multifaceted media and PR campaign supporting the awards programme allows you to highlight your commitment to the development and transformation of the DRC.
Association
Weave your brand into the narrative of DRC’s rise. Be associated with the rigor, innovation, and integrity that define its most transformative projects
Networking
Connect directly with the visionaries (Ministerial leaders, key institutional heads, and the CEOs of the nation's most formidable enterprises)in a forum of mutual ambition.
Brand Recognition
Our integrated campaign will broadcast your commitment across the DRC, positioning your brand as a cornerstone of quality and a trusted partner in development.
Business Development
In the DRC, relationships are the bedrock of business. This is the premier environment to cultivate the alliances that will define the next decade of growth.
Why Attend
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Exclusive Networking: Connect with the highest echelon of Congolese government officials, global investors, and CEOs.
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Brand Visibility: Align your organization with excellence and the DRC’s growth story.
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Strategic Insights: Gain a deeper understanding of the initiatives and business models that are successfully scaling in the DRC.
Be a Part of the DRC’s Success Story. Whether you are nominating a deserving leader or joining us as a guest, your presence at the DRC Elite Awards signifies your commitment to the future of our nation.
For Sponsorship Inquiries: michael.bandembwasa@drcinvest.com