Paula Tabirih-Khoali Makes History at Forty Under 40 Africa Awards

February 27, 2026

1 minute read

The Chief Executive Officer of Bakari International, Paula Tabirih-Khoali, has made history at the Forty Under 40 Africa Awards 2026 by becoming the first woman to win the scheme’s most prestigious honour.

The awards ceremony, held last Saturday in Accra, brought together dignitaries and young leaders from 22 African countries to celebrate excellence and impact among Africans under the age of 40.

Ms Tabirih-Khoali, a 37-year-old agribusiness entrepreneur of Ghanaian and South African descent, emerged as the standout personality of the night after winning two major awards.

She won the Marketing Award in recognition of her role in transforming Africa’s agricultural sector through strategic marketing, value addition, and global market positioning, and the “First among Equals Award.”

Expressing gratitude for the recognition, Ms Tabirih-Khoali said the award represented more than a personal achievement.

“Winning the Africa Forty Under 40 Award is not just a personal milestone; it is a celebration of African excellence in agriculture and trade,” Ms Tabirih-Khoali said.

The Forty Under 40 Africa Awards is an annual initiative aimed at recognising and celebrating young African leaders whose work continues to make significant social and economic impact across the continent.

BY CLIFF EKUFUL

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