Kenya has produced 13 personalities on the New African magazine’s annual list of 100 Most Influential Africans.

This year’s list has eight categories, including: Politics, Business, Civil Society, Media, Religion & Traditional, Science & Technology, Arts & Culture and Sport, and according to the publication every “entry features an insightful profile detailing recent career highlights and achievements – as well as some memorable quotes.”

Top on the list is President Uhuru Kenyatta, who has been listed among 23 politicians and public office holders who are most influential.

Keroche Breweries CEO, Tabitha Karanja, has been named as the most influential business and economic leader. She is celebrated for taking on a more established rival East African Breweries Limited (EABL) in the region’s highly competitive beer market.

On the arts and culture category, Oscar winner Lupita Nyong’o, Ngungi Wa Thingo’o, Binyavanga Wainaina, Jim Chuchu of Just a Band, novelist Yvonne Owuor, TV host and PR strategist Diana Opoti , Gado the cartoonist and photojournalist/activist Boniface Mwangi.

In the sports category, javelin thrower Julius Yego and marathon runner Dennis Kimetto – who is also, presently, the Marathon world record holder – are listed among Africa’s most influential personalities.

According to the New African magazine, many of the personalities on the list of 100 most influential Africans are heroes whose actions have pushed Africa forwards in exciting and positive ways.

The publication however points out that the list also comprises some personalities whose actions continue to hold the continent back. For instance, Boko Haram leader Abubakar Shekau also makes it to the list of influential personalities.

“In every march and movement, there are always a few figures who lead the line and who stick their heads above the parapets before anyone else – these can be trendsetters, visionaries, heroes, and at times even rabble-rousers whose actions or lack thereof, make or break the continent. Wielding influence comes in diverse forms and this collection portrays just that.” The magazine notes.