Dangote Industries Limited has been named Africa’s Most Admired African Brand for the eighth year in a row, maintaining its position as one of the continent’s leading corporate brands in the latest Brand Africa rankings.

The company announced the recognition in a statement on Sunday, following the release of the 2026 Brand Africa 100: Africa’s Best Brands report at the organisation’s 16th annual awards ceremony held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

According to the report, which surveyed consumers across 30 African countries representing more than 85 per cent of the continent’s population and economic activity, Dangote ranked first among African brands in the aided recall category.

It also placed second in spontaneous brand recall, behind MTN and ahead of Trade Kings.

The conglomerate also retained its position as Africa’s most admired industrial brand and was recognised as the leading African brand contributing to the continent’s development. In that category, it ranked ahead of MTN, DStv, Shoprite and Trade Kings.

Brand Africa noted that African brands continue to face stiff competition from international companies despite gradual gains in recognition. The report showed that indigenous brands accounted for just 15 per cent of the continent’s 100 most admired brands, while European, North American and Asian brands represented 38 per cent, 28 per cent and 19 per cent respectively.

Commenting on the findings, Thebe Ikalafeng said increasing support for African-made products remains essential to strengthening the continent’s economic growth and brand competitiveness.

Dangote also secured second place among brands recognised for making positive contributions to society, people and the environment. Alongside MTN and Ethiopian Airlines, it emerged as one of the highest-ranked indigenous African brands in a list dominated by global names such as Nike, Adidas, Samsung, Apple and Coca-Cola.

Further recognition came for Dangote’s Group Chief Branding and Communications Officer, Anthony Chiejina, who was included in the inaugural Africa CMO 100 list. The initiative, created by Brand Africa in partnership with African Business Magazine, MIPAD and African Media Agency, recognises professionals shaping brand development and corporate reputation across Africa.

Chiejina was among 20 executives selected from West Africa and one of 17 Nigerians honoured for contributions to branding, strategic communications and reputation management.

Brand Africa said honourees were chosen through an assessment of leadership influence, industry impact, independent research and their role in strengthening brands that shape consumer perceptions and economic performance.

The latest achievement adds to Dangote Industries’ growing list of honours. In 2025, the company was inducted into the Brand Africa Hall of Fame for its sustained presence among the continent’s most admired brands, while its President and Chief Executive Officer, Aliko Dangote, received a lifetime achievement award in recognition of his contributions to industrialisation and the growth of indigenous enterprise in Africa.