In partnership with Favikon, a startup specializing in social media analysis, the communications agency 35°Ouest, based in Ivory Coast (a subsidiary of 35°Nord), has unveiled the Top 100 most influential leaders and entrepreneurs in French-speaking Africa on social media. This initiative aims to highlight the impact of these business leaders in the African digital landscape.
At the top of the list, Philippe Simo (Cameroon), Nezha Alaoui (Morocco), and Edith Brou Bleu (Ivory Coast) form the leading trio. Combining advice and innovation, proximity and education, advocacy and commitment, they produce useful, editorialized content with high added value for their respective communities, not hesitating to assume the inspiring status of role models, particularly for young people. In terms of national representation, the three countries most present in this ranking are Ivory Coast, Senegal, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Beyond their fame or popularity, the leaders and entrepreneurs featured in this ranking often embody professional success, achievement in the business world, or a strong presence in the debate of ideas. They thus contribute significantly to the continent's growth and the adoption of a Made in Africa narrative.
The ranking analyzes the presence and influence of these leaders on Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, X (formerly Twitter), and LinkedIn, excluding Facebook according to the Favikon methodology. The "influence score," ranging up to 100, evaluates performance on each social network using indicators such as audience size, account growth, and engagement levels. Favikon also offers an overall "authority score," which takes into account qualitative criteria such as active presence on multiple platforms, divided into ten levels of influence for a comprehensive assessment of these personalities' notoriety.
"This unprecedented ranking highlights the power of social media as tools of influence and power. They promote advocacy, strengthen brand awareness, and deploy business strategies across the continent, ultimately contributing actively to its growth. We are in a constantly evolving digital age, so it is imperative for leaders to adapt their approach to communication by fostering closer relationships with their customers and partners," explains Xavier Kreutzer, Digital Director at 35°Nord.
"The Top 100 Favikon & 35°Ouest reflects the region's economic momentum and highlights individuals who, through their digital presence, are helping to redefine standards and inspire future generations of entrepreneurs in French-speaking Africa. We are delighted to play a role in recognizing these key figures who are shaping the continent's economic future," adds Elodie Filopon, Director of 35°Ouest.
"We are delighted to unveil this Top 100 in partnership with 35°Ouest. Following our recent successes in Europe, this initiative highlights the dynamism of digital influence on the African continent through economic leaders who inspire with their innovative approach to communication," concludes Jeremy Boissinot, Founder and CEO of Favikon.
The complete ranking is also available on the Favikon platform.
Source: press release