In Summary
- In 2025, Nike remained the most admired global brand overall in Africa, while MTN topped the list of African brands, according to The Brand Africa 100 survey, which covered 31 countries on the continent.
- In Africa, South Africa is recognized as the most admired national brand, registering six out of the top ten brands.
- MTN, Vodacom, and Safaricom lead in value, Shoprite and Mr Price show retail sector strength and consumer trust, Kenyan banks and fintechs like Equity Bank and M-PESA lead regional integration and financial inclusion, while Dangote stands out in heavy industry.
Deep Dive!!
African brands are gaining remarkable traction, not only within the continent but on the global stage. As consumer markets grow and digital access expands, homegrown companies are stepping into the spotlight in shaping industries, challenging international competitors, and reflecting Africa’s entrepreneurial spirit.
According to The Brand Africa 100 Survey 2025 Report, 2025 marks a significant shift in brand recognition, with several African businesses establishing themselves as household names through innovation, resilience, and cultural relevance.
Here are the top 10 most well-known African brands in 2025, offering insights into the sectors driving brand strength and the companies redefining Africa’s commercial landscape. From telecom giants and retail powerhouses to pioneers in finance and fast-moving consumer goods, these brands are not only market leaders, they are symbols of a confident, forward-moving continent. Check them out!
10. Chi Limited – Nigeria
Chi Limited is one of Nigeria’s top producers of fruit juices, dairy products, and snacks. Now fully owned by Coca-Cola, Chi is known for popular brands like Chivita and Hollandia.
It belongs to the FMCG (Fast-Moving Consumer Goods) category, Certified ISO 22000, and was named a “Great Place to Work” in 2024.
9. Mr Price Group – South Africa
Mr Price is a favorite for budget-conscious shoppers across Southern Africa. With over 2,900 stores, it’s loved for stylish, affordable clothing and home goods. It has generated over R37.9 billion in revenue and is a major player in the African retail sector.
8. Dangote Group – Nigeria
Founded by Africa’s richest man, Aliko Dangote, this company is a giant in cement, sugar, and now oil refining. Dangote Cement alone produces over 48 million tonnes annually. It is a market leader in the African Industrial and Manufacturing sector and is often ranked as number one in Africa’s “Essential” brands category.
7. Equity Bank – Kenya
Equity Bank is East Africa’s largest bank by customer base. Known for financial inclusion and digital banking services, it continues to gain trust across the region. It has a brand value of approximately $450 million and has a strength of AAA+ brand rating.
6. Safaricom – Kenya
Home to M-PESA, the world’s most successful mobile money service, Safaricom dominates Kenya’s telecom market. Safaricom is a telecom and fintech giant in the continent with a market share of over 65%, with over 47 million active subscribers.
5. Shoprite – South Africa
Retail giants, Shoprite is Africa’s largest supermarket chain, with over 3,400 stores in 10+ countries. It’s a go-to for groceries and essentials. It has recorded over R130.8 billion in revenue and is recognized for its massive footprint and affordability for everyday Africans.
4. Nando’s – South Africa
Clocking in as a Food Service/Restaurant service provider, this flame-grilled chicken brand has become a global success. From South Africa to the UK and Australia, Nando’s brings African flavour to the world. It has a brand value of over $1.5 billion and is known for its bold marketing and unique Afro-Portuguese style
3. Standard Bank – South Africa
Africa’s biggest bank by assets is also one of its strongest brands. Standard Bank is a leader in digital banking and corporate finance. The Bank has a brand value of $2 billion and experienced a 12% growth increase from last year.
2. Vodacom – South Africa
As a leading telecommunications giant and part of the global Vodafone family, Vodacom serves millions across Southern and Eastern Africa with mobile and internet services. With a brand value of $2.3 billion and a brand strength of AAA rating, the company continues to make waves across the continent, and beyond.
1. MTN Group (South Africa)
Like the slogan – everywhere you go, MTN tops the list as Africa’s most valuable and strongest brand in 2025. With operations in over 20 countries and nearly 290 million subscribers, MTN is everywhere you go across the African continent. It has a brand value of $3.6 billion and recently partnered with Mastercard to boost mobile money growth across the continent.
https://www.africanexponent.com/top-10-most-well-known-african-brands-in-2025/
