African business statesman and corporate governance icon Sir Sam Jonah was the undisputed star of the Exclusive Men of the Year (EMY) Africa Awards 2025, securing the highest honour of the evening as the Ultimate Man of the Year Award.
The award recognises an individual whose lifetime achievements, leadership, and impact have not only revolutionised their industry but also profoundly shaped the socio-economic landscape of the continent.
Sir Sam Jonah’s selection underscores his decades-long career defined by pioneering leadership in the mining sector, fervent advocacy for ethical governance, and deep commitment to African economic independence.
The EMY Africa Awards 2025 was held on Saturday, November 22, at the Accra International Conference Centre (AICC), with a host of other personalities picking up coveted honours.
The ceremony, themed “Celebrating the Legacy”, paid extensive tribute to Sir Sam Jonah’s contributions:
- Mining Sector Transformation: He is widely credited with turning Ashanti Goldfields Corporation (AGC) from a Ghanaian state-owned entity into a global mining giant, making it the first Ghanaian and second African company to be listed on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) in 1996. This singular achievement showcased African enterprise to the world.
- Corporate Governance Advocate: Beyond mining, Sir Sam Jonah has been a vocal champion for strong, transparent governance, frequently using his platform to criticise corruption and advocate for accountability in the public sector. His recent outspoken addresses, particularly those to professional bodies, have resonated deeply across Ghana’s ethical and political landscape.
- Boardroom Influence: His influence spans multiple sectors, having served on the boards of global institutions, including Vodafone Group, the Ecobank Group, and the International Crisis Group.
The award citation highlighted that his leadership exemplified the resilience and potential of African entrepreneurship, cementing him as a figure of global corporate reverence.
The EMY Africa Awards 2025 event was a high-profile affair, drawing over 100 distinguished guests, including political figures, CEOs, and stars across the globe.
The presentation of the Ultimate Man of the Year Award was considered the most anticipated moment of the evening.
The event, in its 10th edition, utilised a massive broadcast network, reaching an estimated 10 million viewers across 15 African countries and garnering significant traction on global streaming platforms.
The honour solidifies Sir Sam Jonah’s place not just as a business leader, but as a moral compass and ultimate role model for young African professionals aspiring to excellence and integrity.