Premier Invest in Honour as Founder Rene Awambeng named amongst 100 Influential Africans
December 27, 2024
By Ajong Mbapndah L
Rene Awambeng, the visionary Founder and Managing Partner of Premier Invest has established himself as one of Africa's foremost dealmakers
Rene Awambeng, the visionary Founder and Managing Partner of Premier Invest, has been named one of the 100 Most Influential Africans of 2024 by New African Magazine. This prestigious honour celebrates individuals who consistently shape the future of the continent.
The recognition underscores Rene Awambeng’s trailblazing role in the African energy sector, driving the continent's sustainable transformation. It also places Awambeng among a distinguished list of leaders, and innovators, who have received this distinction.
Awambeng has established himself as one of Africa's foremost dealmakers. In 2024, the renowned banker and financier launched Premier Invest, a new advisory firm with ambitious plans, including the creation of an investment fund and a trade finance bank. Premier Invest marked a significant milestone in 2024 by securing strategic partnerships with key industry players, including energy major Shell, to co-finance high-impact oil and gas projects throughout the continent.
Beyond its work in oil and gas, Premier Invest has been instrumental in supporting the growth of renewable energy in Africa. The firm is actively involved in financing solar and wind energy projects and has been a key player in advancing Africa’s energy transition.
A passionate pan-Africanist, Awambeng was honoured last year with the prestigious Global Executive Leader Award and is now leading efforts to attract international investment into diverse African industries. He is also a Board Member of the African Energy Chamber, AEC.
The announcement of Awambeng’s inclusion among Africa’s elite was met with celebrations. AEC Executive Chairman NJ Ayuk said: “On behalf of the AEC, I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to Rene Awambeng and Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard for being named among the 100 Most Influential Africans of 2024. Their leadership, vision and commitment to driving sustainable transformation in Africa's energy sector are truly inspiring. We are proud to have them as key members of our board, and their recognition further underscores the critical role that African leaders play in shaping a prosperous and energy-secure future for the continent.”
“Congratulations, Rene. Big Win for you and the Premier Invest Team. You might not know it. But you have inspired a generation of Africans to dream and think big. You have activated young people as leaders. Thank you for continuing to promote innovative solutions that promote equitable collaboration, connecting African minds and businesses with their inner purpose,” the African Energy Chamber said.
“My Dear Brother Rene, Congratulations on this remarkable recognition as one of the 100 Most Influential Africans of 2024! What an extraordinary and well-deserved honour to be celebrated among such inspiring leaders, including the likes of Aliko Dangote,” Sib Ali said. “You continue to inspire a generation of Africans to dream bigger and think bolder. Your unwavering commitment to innovative solutions, equitable collaboration, and connecting African minds and businesses with purpose is truly transformative. This recognition is a testament to your vision, dedication, and impact. I am proud to call you my brother and look forward to seeing you continue to make waves across Africa and beyond," continued Sib Ali who is CEO of Primera Group Limited
In addition to his work with Premier Invest, Awambeng brings a wealth of experience and expertise in energy finance and project development, having previously served as the Global Head for Client Relations at the African Export-Import Bank. His leadership has been instrumental in securing funding for some of Africa’s most promising energy projects, positioning Premier Invest as a key player in shaping the future of Africa’s energy sector.
Also featured on the list are Oando PLC CEO Wale Tinubu, Nigerian businessman and industrialist Aliko Dangote and Nigerian economist Prof Benedict Okey Oramah. Other notable inclusions on the list include Patrice Motsepe, South Africa; Bassirou Diomaye Faye, Senegal; King Mohammed VI, Morocco; Idris Elba, Sierra Leone/Ghana; Helmy Abouleish, Egypt; Adebayo Ogunlesi, Nigeria; and Jeremy Awori, Kenya, to name a few.
Awambeng’s recognition is not just a win for him or Prime Invest but also a reflection of Africa’s growing influence on the global stage. It underscores the importance of leaders who are driving change and challenging stereotypes about the continent. Through Prime Invest, he has demonstrated the power of business to create meaningful change and inspired countless individuals to believe in Africa’s potential.
