The African Development Bank (AfDB), Groupe Jeune Afrique and Rainbow Unlimited, organisers of Africa CEO Forum, say the forum is meant to boost economic growth and development on the continent.

The forum, an international event focusing on African private sector development strategies, recognises businesses and investors whose strategies and performance have contributed the most to the continent’s growth over the past year.

This year’s edition, which will hold in Geneva, Switzerland from March 16 to 17, is expected to push further the forum’s quest for economic growth and development in Africa, according to a statement by the organisers.

“A jury of investment, consulting and media professionals, will rigorously examine over 300 applications before selecting 10 finalists in each category,” the statement said.

The winners will be announced on March 16 at an event in the presence of Donald Kaberuka president of AfDB.

“The nominees for the AFRICA CEO FORUM awards, whose performance foster the emergence of competitive African companies both in Africa and abroad, are selected for their commitment and achievements in four key areas of African growth in 2014: promotion of Africa’s private sector, strengthening of regional integration, development of intra-African trade, and social and environmental responsibility,” the statement said.

It also said over 800 bankers, financiers and leading decision-makers were expected at the event.

Source: Business World