Ghanaian-South African entrepreneur Paula Tabirih – Khoali, Founder and CEO of Bakari International, has been nominated for the 2026 edition of the Forty Under 40 Africa Awards in the Marketing and Communications category.
The 37-year-old business leader is being recognised for her work in sourcing, marketing, and exporting African produce to international markets while empowering smallholder farmers across eight African countries to access fair trade opportunities. Bakari International positions these farmers as brand custodians, promoting African produce through compelling narratives and strategic market development.
Speaking on her nomination, Tabirih-Khoali said, “Being nominated, and hopefully winning, this award will not only honour my long entrepreneurial journey but also validate a powerful truth: when one is driven by purpose, they can change economies.”
She added, “It is a reminder to keep believing in yourself. Whenever you find something you’re good at, which in my case is leveraging market knowledge to create business opportunities, let purpose lead. I’m proud to be called to the table of Africa’s best.”
The nomination comes after a record year for Bakari International, a reflection of her pan-African vision and growing influence in the continent’s agribusiness sector.
The fifth edition of the Forty Under 40 Africa Awards is scheduled for 14 February 2026 at the Kempinski Hotel Gold Coast in Accra. The event celebrates young African leaders across industries and is endorsed by the Office of the President (Diaspora Affairs), the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, and the Ministry of Youth Development and Empowerment.
