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Sustainability is no longer a buzzword; it’s a necessity, especially in Africa where climate change, food insecurity, and economic disparities intersect. The Financial Times/World Bank Group Africa Sustainable Futures Awards 2025 aims to recognize and uplift the continent’s most promising changemakers driving sustainable development.
Are you or your organization making a meaningful difference through innovation, policy, or storytelling? This is your chance to shine.
About the Organizers
Financial Times (FT)
The Financial Times is a global leader in economic and business journalism, known for its authoritative content, especially on development and sustainability.
World Bank Group (WBG)
The World Bank Group is an international financial institution that provides funding and expertise to end poverty and promote shared prosperity.
Why They Partnered for This Initiative
Both organizations understand that impactful storytelling and innovation are vital to scaling solutions in Africa. This award recognizes that synergy.
Objectives of the Awards
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Recognize transformative sustainability efforts
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Amplify African voices on a global stage
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Encourage responsible journalism and innovation
Eligibility Criteria
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Open to African nationals, organizations, startups, NGOs, and journalists
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Projects must focus on sustainable development themes
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Submissions can be self-nominations or third-party nominations
Categories of the Awards
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Business Innovation – Green tech startups, eco-friendly product designers, renewable energy solutions.
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Sustainable Agriculture – Soil conservation, organic farming, climate-smart agriculture.
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Climate Action and Resilience – Projects addressing climate risk, adaptation, or carbon reduction.
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Youth and Women Empowerment – Initiatives led by or benefiting women and youth in sustainable industries.
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Media and Journalism Excellence – Journalistic work that raises awareness on climate, development, and innovation.
Submission Guidelines
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Deadline: October 15, 2025
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Submit at sustainablefutures
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Required: Project summary (max 1,000 words), impact metrics, photos/videos, references
Selection Process
Evaluation Metrics
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Innovation
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Scalability
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Impact
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Sustainability
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Inclusivity
Judging Panel
A diverse mix of experts from the World Bank, Financial Times, academia, and sustainability organizations will review all submissions.
Benefits of Winning
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Up to $15,000 in cash prizes
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Media coverage across FT and WBG platforms
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Speaking opportunities at international events
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Exposure to impact investors and partners
Timeline
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Application Opens: August 1, 2025
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Deadline: October 15, 2025
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Finalists Announced: December 1, 2025
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Award Ceremony: January 2026 in Nairobi, Kenya
Success Stories and Past Winners
Last year’s winners included a Kenyan startup revolutionizing e-mobility and a Nigerian journalist whose documentary on water pollution led to policy changes.
Why It Matters for Africa
Sustainable development isn’t a Western agenda—it’s a human one. Africa stands to benefit immensely from local innovation and visibility.
Challenges in Achieving Sustainable Development in Africa
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Weak infrastructure
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Limited funding
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Climate vulnerabilities
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Policy inconsistencies
How the Awards Address These Challenges
By providing funding, access to global platforms, and recognition, the Awards help scale impactful solutions and influence policy.
Tips for a Successful Application
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Be clear, concise, and compelling
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Use data to back your impact
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Include testimonials or visual evidence
FAQs
1. Can I nominate someone else? Yes, third-party nominations are welcome.
2. Can I submit a project that started in previous years? Yes, as long as it’s still active and making an impact.
3. Is there an age limit? No, but youth-led projects are highly encouraged.
4. Will I get feedback if not selected? Only shortlisted candidates receive feedback.
5. Can journalists apply with unpublished work? No, submissions must have been published in the last 24 months.
Conclusion
Africa’s future is sustainable, and it’s being built by visionaries like you. The Financial Times/World Bank Group Africa Sustainable Futures Awards 2025 is more than a competition—it’s a platform to tell your story, gain global recognition, and attract the support you need.
Visit https://sustainablefutures.ft.com to apply or nominate someone today!
