In Africa, where road infrastructure drives economic growth and connectivity, a new generation of entrepreneurs leads the charge. These innovators construct roads, pave the way for regional integration, trade, and sustainable development.
Here are the top 5 entrepreneurs transforming road development in Africa:
– Simbi Phiri (Malawi): Founder and Executive Chairman of Khato Civils, Phiri established the company in 2010 after acquiring a small firm created by Italian immigrants. He expanded it into a Grade 9 construction firm, focusing on large-scale infrastructure projects across Southern Africa.
– Mmathapelo Mojapelo (South Africa): Managing Director of Elmandi Road Maintenance, Mojapelo took over the family business and drove its growth. Under her leadership, the company became a significant player in road surfacing and maintenance in South Africa.
– Humphrey Williams (Ghana): Founder and Chairman of Oswal Investments Limited, Williams started the company by renting out construction tools and grew it into a leading firm in Ghana’s construction industry. His company earned recognition for excellence in road construction and infrastructure development.
– Mongezi Mnyani (South Africa): CEO of Khato Civils, Mnyani leads the company in executing significant road projects, including a 2km road associated with a water treatment plant in Botswana. Under his leadership, Khato Civils expanded its footprint across Southern Africa.
– Tunde Ayeni (Nigeria): Founder and Chairman of Integrated Infrastructure Limited (IIL), Ayeni executed major road construction and rehabilitation projects across Nigeria. His company contributes significantly to improving national road infrastructure.
These entrepreneurs build roads that lay the foundation for Africa’s economic growth, connecting communities, boosting trade, and creating opportunities across the continent.
This ranking highlights entrepreneurs demonstrating leadership, innovation, and verifiable impact in road development across Africa. Factors considered include project scale, regional connectivity, and contributions to local economies, based on verified industry reports and media sources as of September 2025.
Image Credit: Construction Today
