Theme: "Fostering Collaboration, Networking among Business Leaders, Security Stakeholders, and Notable Leaders across Africa"

The 100 Most Notable African Leadership and Business Summit 2024 took place from August 1st to 4th at the prestigious Marriott Hotel in Kigali, Rwanda. This event marked a significant milestone in advancing leadership excellence, economic growth, and collaboration among African business leaders, security stakeholders, and influential figures across the continent. With its central theme of fostering collaboration and networking, the summit provided a vital platform for addressing Africa’s challenges while paving the way for a united and prosperous future.

The event drew delegates from 18 African countries, representing a diverse array of industries and sectors, showcasing collective efforts to shape Africa’s future. We also had Representatives  Of Rwanda Development Board and Also Kenya Investment Board.Among the notable attendees were His Excellency Dr. Dauda Lawal, Executive Governor of Zamfara State, Nigeria; Prince Godswill Edward, representing former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan; Dr. GD Singh, a global business leader; Dr. Samira Buhari, Founder of the Daurama Foundation; Dr. Nabhit Kapur, President of World Leaders for Mental Health (India); Dr. Daniel Moses, CEO of Property Wealth Education Ltd. (United Kingdom); and Dr. Imane Kendili, President of the African Global Health NGO. Their participation underscored the summit's relevance and reach across Africa.

Ambassador Kingsley Amafibe, the convener of the summit, described the event as a beacon for realizing the African Dream. In his opening remarks, Amafibe emphasized the importance of innovative business ideas, responsible leadership, and cross-sector collaboration as essential elements for Africa’s development. According to him, Africa’s path to growth lies in building bridges across its diverse nations and leveraging the continent's immense potential through strategic partnerships.

The summit featured panel discussions, breakout sessions, and networking events that brought together leading voices in African business and leadership to explore innovative solutions to key challenges. These sessions addressed issues such as sustainable development, security, entrepreneurship, and economic growth within Africa’s dynamic business environment.

Panel discussions were a highlight of the summit, featuring esteemed experts who discussed Africa's future in terms of business development, peacebuilding, and economic sustainability. The dialogues stressed the need for leaders to address immediate socio-political concerns while charting long-term strategies for holistic development. 

Breakout sessions provided a more intimate platform for participants to engage directly with thought leaders, exchanging practical insights and forming strategic partnerships. These discussions covered specific sectors such as trade, technology, healthcare, and finance, helping participants harness new opportunities for growth within their fields. Notably, the emphasis on security collaboration among stakeholders underscored the growing need for comprehensive solutions to Africa's security challenges as part of a broader economic development strategy.

The event culminated in an All-White Gala Dinner, celebrating African leadership and business excellence. The evening honored notable figures for their contributions to promoting peace, economic growth, and community development across Africa.

Among the awardees were His Excellency Dr. Dauda Lawal, recognized as a Transformational Political Leader in Africa for his work in driving sustainable development and good governance in Zamfara State, Nigeria. Dr. GD Singh received the Global Award for Excellence in Business Development for his outstanding leadership in international business growth.

Other distinguished Notable Awardees/ honorees included:

• Dr. Nabhit Kapur, President of World Leaders for Mental Health (India), awarded the Global Africa Best Community Engagement Award.
• Adeniyi Victor, CEO of Ivydealz Enterprise Nig. Ltd, recognized as Africa's Rising Star Young Entrepreneur of the Year.
• Dr. Imane Kendili, Psychiatrist and President of African Global Health NGO, awarded Africa Woman Excellence Award.
• HRM Queen Vickylextar Okang-Sowah, Omanye Royal Kingdom (Canada), named Emerging Africa Inspiring Woman of the Year.
• Dr. Angel Josephat Natianota, Founder/CEO, HR World Limited Tanzania, honored as Africa Outstanding Business Team Leader of the Year.

Other honored recipients included Dr. Kate Effiong (PhD), Model Analyst and Founder of KMI Diamonds, as Emerging Africa Inspiring Change Maker; Princess Farida Ahmed, CEO of Raisa Palms Ltd, as Emerging Africa Inspiring Woman of the Year; Hon. Prof. Mthuli Ncube, Minister of Finance, Economic Development & Investment Promotion of Zimbabwe, as Emerging Africa Award for Excellence in Development; and Peter Asiimwe, CEO of Petrelli Group of Companies, as Africa Young Emerging Entrepreneur in Business.

Additional awardees were Hon. Dr. Aplonia, Minister of State for Provincial Affairs for Mashonaland East, Zimbabwe, for Excellence in Community Development; Dr. Dominic Oduro Antwi, President of the Ghana India Trade Advisory Chamber, for Excellence in International Relations; Charles Ananti, CEO of Ace Academy, HIP-City Ent., and TTB Cyber Homes, for Africa Emerging Entertainment Entrepreneur Award; H.E. Prof. Smelly Dube, Group CEO of Rivervalley Group of Companies, Zimbabwe, as Emerging Africa Business Woman of the Year; Hon. Anastancia Ndhlovu, former Deputy Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Industry, Zimbabwe, as Africa Excellence Award for Economic Development; and Dr. Saadatu Adamu, Founder of Secure The Future International Initiative (SDF), as African Inspiring Woman in Advocacy for Mental Health.

Founder/CEO of HR World Limited Tanzania, as Africa Outstanding Business Team Leader of the Year; Agness Suleiman Kahamba, Founder & President of Tupaze Sauti Foundation, Tanzania, as Africa Inspiring Change Maker; Dr. Simon Adozi, MD/CEO of Adozillion Homes and Realty Limited, as Emerging Africa Real Estate Investment Management Company of the Year; Amb. Yusuf Shehu Tijani, Chairman of Techno Group Limited, as Africa Business Investment Chairman of the Year; Hon. Dr. Dubem Oguegbu, Executive Director of Gustavo Cubana Enugu, as Africa Emerging Business Personality of the Year; and Hon. Ahmed Bashir, Former Assistant to the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, as Emerging Africa Inspiring Change Maker.

Gambo Manzo, CEO of GB-View Consulting Limited, received the Africa Excellence Award in Leadership and Community Development. Other recipients included Amb. Mohammed Tijjani Sabiu, CEO of Impeccable Impressions Nigeria Ltd, as Africa Entrepreneur of the Year, and Amb. Chinedu Raymond, CEO of Primesmart Ltd, as Rising Star Africa Young Entrepreneur of the Year. Hon. Yar Telar Ring Deng, Member of Parliament of South Sudan, was honored with the Africa Leadership and Social Change Award. High Chief Higgins Peter, Founder/Chairman of Opal Global Communication, received the Africa Excellence Award for Corporate Leadership. Amb. Tricia Obi-Abu, CEO of Patreva International Limited, received the Pioneer Faith-Based Initiative Excellence Award.

H.E. Amb. Adeniran Michael Timothy, Special Emissary to Tanzania and Director of Funmilayo Health Foundation Africa, as Africa Renewable Inspiring Youth Advocate and Community Development. Mr. Hero Chinedu Usiagwu, MD/CEO of Zioncity Innovation Services Limited, received the Africa Innovation and Entrepreneur Team Leader of the Year award. HRH Eze Dr. Ken O. Nwala KSC JP, Ugo 1 of Etche Land, received the Award for Excellence in Peace and Community Development in Africa. Lady Sylvia Nduka, Founder of Seed Foundation, was honored as Emerging Africa Inspirational Woman of the Year. Dr. Dallaji Noah Nuhu, Founder/President of African Children Talent Discovery Foundation (ACTDF), received the Africa Excellence Leadership and Visionary Award.

Key Insights from the Summit

1. Collaboration is Key: The summit underscored the importance of fostering collaboration between business leaders, security stakeholders, and notable figures across Africa. Meaningful progress can only be achieved through collective efforts addressing common challenges.
2. Leadership Matters: Strong, responsible leadership emerged as a driving force behind Africa’s development. Leaders committed to transparency, innovation, and inclusivity will shape the continent's future.
3. Youth Empowerment: The event highlighted the need to empower Africa’s youth, particularly through entrepreneurship. Young leaders like Adeniyi Victor exemplify the potential of African youth to lead in business innovation and community development.
4. Celebrating African Excellence: The awards night served as a reminder of the immense talent and innovation across the continent. Recognizing and celebrating these achievements is essential to inspire the next generation of African leaders.
5. The Future of African Business: Discussions focused on sustainable development, technological innovation, and regional integration as key drivers of Africa’s growth.

The 100 Most Notable African Leadership and Business Summit 2024 laid the foundation for a more connected, innovative, and prosperous continent. Relationships forged during the summit will continue to yield positive results in the years to come.

This annual celebration of African excellence is not only a platform for recognizing achievements but also a catalyst for driving sustainable development across Africa. As Ambassador Kingsley Amafibe emphasized, the summit represents a continuous journey towards making Africa great. Through collaboration, innovation, and leadership, the future of Africa looks brighter than ever.

The 100 Most Notable Peace Icons Africa organizers of 100 Most Notable Africans Leadership and Business Summit played hosted Africans in Diaspora on the 6th of January in Brooklyn, New York, United States of America, key stakeholders, policymakers, entrepreneurs and political leaders across Africa continent attended the round table meeting,  it's was a night of class and glamor. Africa investment and global economic cooperation took centre stage as key discussions was Investment Opportunities and economic growth in Africa and how our leaders can build partnership with global community. Amb Kingsley Amafibe and others  unveiled a bold vision for Africa–Western partnerships at the 100 Most Notable Peace Icons of Africa in Diaspora 2026.

Speaking on the sidelines of the event , the Nigerian Ambassador to New York stated that it's about time we rise up to our responsibility as a people, Africa is currently experiencing its share of global economic growth and positioned as the next destination of business hub. Amb Kingsley Amafibe, the convener and Projects Director Africa said New York was deliberately chosen to position Africa within the heart of global finance and policymaking. He described the United States as a strategic partner capable of aligning capital with Africa’s fast-growing markets to drive shared prosperity.

​"Direct Foreign Investment (FDI) is no longer a one-way street of 'aid', it is a two-way highway of 'opportunity,'" Amb. Amafibe stated. "When we bring these Peace Icons to the U.S., we are showing American and European investors that Africa is not a risk to be managed, but a market to be entered. This summit is about creating a seamless link where Western capital meets African resilience."

Amafibe stressed that foreign direct investment should no longer be viewed as aid but as mutual opportunity, noting that Africa represents a market ready for serious engagement rather than a risk to be avoided. He highlighted the continent’s critical mineral reserves such as cobalt, lithium and rare earth elements as central to the global energy transition and advanced technology industries.

According to him, local processing of these resources in Africa would create jobs, strengthen supply chains and provide ethically sourced materials for American and European industries, delivering benefits across the value chain.

The gala drew Wall Street executives, European diplomats and African entrepreneurs, reinforcing the message that Africa’s development is closely linked to global economic stability. Amafibe said the recognised “Peace Icons” would serve as bridges between African innovation hubs and Western investors, helping to unlock opportunities, reduce migration pressures and expand global consumer markets.

​"Home is not just a place on a map," Amafibe concluded, reflecting on the night's theme. "It is a commitment to peace and prosperity. Tonight in Brooklyn,New York we proved that when we unite the African Diaspora with global partners, the possibilities are limitless."

He also stated that the African diaspora gathering was more than a ceremonial event, describing it as the launch point for a multi-continental economic transformation driven by diaspora collaboration, peace and shared prosperity. Distinguished personalities received the Icon of Peace Africa.

A New Dawn in Africa

The sun was shining over the land as it shines in the hearts of the people.
 The air was warm, soft like silk, wrapping the city in comfort and calm.
 Hope danced gently on the wind, whispering promises of change, unity, and growth.

This was not just another day in Africa.
 This was the kind of day that makes history.
 A day when the ordinary became extraordinary.

The 2025 edition of the 100 Most Notable African Leadership and Business Summit had finally arrived. From the early hours of the morning, the roads leading to the summit venue were alive with colors, flags of many nations, outfits rich in culture, and eyes bright with purpose.

Men and women from all over the continent were arriving as guests, visionaries.
 From Accra to Addis Ababa, from Rabat to Kigali, leaders, thinkers, builders, and dreamers touched down, one flight after the other. They came with suitcases full of plans and hearts full of passion.

There was laughter in the air. Hugs between old friends. Introductions between new allies.

 The stage was set.
 The red carpet stretched long and wide, ready to welcome Africa’s finest.
 The name tags had names that mattered not because they were famous, but because they were doing the work that changes lives.

As the day began, one thing was clear: the 2025 Notables were not here to be seen. They were here to serve. They came from different countries like  Nigeria, Morocco, Kenya, Ghana, Rwanda, and many more. Some wore suits, others wore native clothes. But they all had one thing in common: they were building Africa with their hearts, their hands, and their hard work.

Some of the awardees were doctors, working hard to improve healthcare and bring hope to patients. Others were tech innovators, building apps and solutions that solve everyday problems in their communities. There were also leaders and public servants focused on making life better through policy, peacebuilding, and reform.

They didn’t all have the same background, but they shared one thing in common: they were making a difference. Each one stood out because they chose to take action, not just talk about change. Their stories weren’t just impressive; they were inspiring examples of what’s possible when passion meets purpose.

Awards and Stories That Stood Out

• Malik Shaffy Lizinde brought Rwanda’s creative spirit to center stage. He isn’t your typical CEO; he’s a builder of dreams. Through his creative agency, Malik hires youth who never had the chance to attend university. No degrees? No problem. What he looks for is raw passion, curiosity, and community drive. Under his leadership, these young people are producing bold campaigns, original content, and branding strategies that compete globally. Malik’s model proves that talent is everywhere; it just needs someone to believe in it.

• Dr. Nana Kojo of Ghana is not your typical doctor. He spends more time in classrooms and youth centers than in hospitals. Through workshops, radio shows, and digital platforms, Dr. Kojo speaks openly to teenagers and young adults about something many still find hard to talk about: mental health. In a society where mental illness is often misunderstood or ignored, he’s helping young people put language to their struggles and find the support they need. His message is clear and powerful:

  “If your mind is not well, nothing else will work.”
   His award was a reflection of his professional excellence and also his boldness in turning empathy into education.

• Aisha Bello, a young entrepreneur from Nigeria, stood on stage with quiet confidence, the kind built from experience instead of ego. She started her business with almost nothing but an idea, a few handmade products, and a will to succeed. Today, that idea has grown into a company that has employed over 500 women, many of them single mothers and school dropouts. She trains them, mentors them, and gives them a steady income. Her goal, alongside growing profits, is to lift women out of poverty one job at a time. Her business may be small in scale, but her dream is as wide as the continent.

  “When you give a woman a job,” she says, “you give her power, and her whole family changes.”

• Prof. Haruna Musa stepped up with a message that resonated with every ear in the room: “Smart farming is not just innovation; it’s justice.” A respected academic with deep grassroots reach, he advocates for using technology to transform how we grow and distribute food. His vision includes drone-assisted farming, solar-powered irrigation, and youth-led cooperatives. For Prof. Musa, food security isn’t optional; it’s the foundation of peace, progress, and dignity.

• Governor Emmanuel Nyirenda, from Malawi, received a standing ovation before he even reached the podium. In a world where political leaders are often criticized for doing too little, Governor Nyirenda has built a reputation for doing more than expected. Under his leadership, villages that were once forgotten now have paved roads, working schools, and fully equipped clinics. He visits these communities often, not for cameras, but for conversations.

  “We don’t just lead with titles,” he said, “we lead with truth.”
   His award was a symbol of something rare and deeply needed: trust in public service.

More Than a Summit  - A Mirror

This was more than a summit. It was a reflection, a mirror held up to Africa, showing both its scars and its strength. It celebrated what’s working and also dared to ask, what more can we become?

The real heart of the event beat strongest during the panel discussions. These weren’t just talks; they were truth-telling sessions. No one came to impress; they came to express. Young leaders sat beside seasoned experts. Entrepreneurs challenged politicians. Clerics listened to creatives. It was a space of equal voices and shared purpose.

Here’s a glimpse into the conversations that lit up the rooms:

Mental Health in Schools and Media
One panel opened with a sobering thought: “We teach math and science, but not how to cope with sadness or pressure.” From educators to mental health advocates, the discussion centered on why emotional wellness must start early, in classrooms, homes, and even cartoons. Speakers pushed for media programming that shows real emotions, not just perfect lives. “Let our kids see that it’s okay to cry and stronger to talk,” said one youth advocate.

Food Systems and Economic Fairness
 Food was on everyone’s mind, on dinner plates as well as in policy debates. Experts spoke about how food security is tied to justice. “It’s not just about growing crops,” one speaker said. “It’s about making sure no child goes to bed hungry while warehouses stay full.” The panel explored smart farming, farmer cooperatives, and the link between agriculture and dignity.

Financial Literacy in Churches and Mosques
 Faith leaders shared how sermons could become solutions. A pastor from Uganda described Sunday services that end with budgeting tips. An imam spoke about teaching savings and investment after prayer. The message was clear: financial wisdom must walk hand-in-hand with spiritual guidance. “Faith without financial knowledge leads to struggle,” one panelist said.

Youth Employment Without Degrees
 Another powerful session challenged the old formula: School → Degree → Job. Instead, it highlighted practical skills, mentorship, apprenticeships, and entrepreneurship. “Degrees open doors,” a speaker noted, “but so do hammers, laptops, and sewing machines.” Real stories of success came from people who never went to university but learned to code, farm, design, or build with excellence.

Peacebuilding and Pan-African Unity
 In a room filled with flags, this panel reminded everyone that Africa’s greatest strength is its people, not its borders. From conflict mediators to regional planners, the talk focused on how to build peace through education, trade, dialogue, and shared history. “We are not 54 nations; we are one home with many rooms,” one speaker said, to a round of applause.

Creative Industries as Tools of Growth
 Here, fashion designers, filmmakers, musicians, and digital creators stood up to be counted. They were entertainers; they were economy builders. “A beat can carry a message. A film can change a mindset. A dress can carry a culture,” said a fashion entrepreneur. They called for more investment in Africa’s creativity, not as decoration, but as development.

By the end of the sessions, something powerful had taken shape. The summit became a space where truth found its voice, where bold ideas, honest reflections, and big dreams were welcomed without hesitation. It was more than a celebration; it was a call to action.

The mirror held up during those days reflects the present, but more importantly, it revealed a vision of an Africa full of heart-led leadership, hardworking hands, and communities rising side by side toward something greater.

A Night to Remember

The gala didn’t feel like a formal event; it felt like a beautifully told story unfolding in real time. Live African drums greeted guests at the entrance, blending with soft jazz and Afrobeats that played in the background. The tables were dressed with care, adorned with gold accents, woven fabrics, and centerpieces that celebrated the continent’s diverse cultures. You could hear conversations in Swahili, French, Arabic, English, and pidgin, and yet, somehow, everyone understood each other perfectly.

Laughter filled the room as old friends reunited and new bonds were formed. Plates were full of jollof rice, suya, tagine, plantains, and injera, a continental menu fit for kings and queens. The DJ shifted into classic hits from every corner of Africa, and soon enough, guests left their chairs to dance, hands in the air, shoes off, joy on full display.

But beyond the celebration, something deeper was taking shape. In those few hours, borders disappeared. Business leaders danced beside activists. Politicians took selfies with fashion designers. A young awardee from Congo shared a table with a professor from Ghana.

It didn’t matter where anyone came from. That night, Africa didn’t feel divided by lines on a map. It felt like one family, with one heartbeat, sharing one story.

Yes, the fashion was stunning. Yes, the music was unforgettable. But what made the night truly magical was the sense that Africa was dreaming in the same direction and believing it could all come true.

Why This Matters

Too often, the world sees Africa through the wrong lens, as a place always waiting, always needing, always catching up. But this summit told a different story.

It showed that Africa is not sitting still. It’s building, creating, and leading in its way. Across the rooms and stages, you could feel the power of local solutions and homegrown leadership. These weren’t people looking for handouts; they were people rolling up their sleeves, solving problems, and bringing others along with them.

It reminded us that the strength of a continent isn’t measured by noise or numbers alone. True power lives in the teacher who starts a school in her backyard, the doctor who opens a mental health clinic where no one else will, the governor who visits villages without cameras, the designer who turns tradition into global fashion, and the youth leader who organizes change from a phone and a dream.

Africa doesn’t need to wait to be discovered. It has already discovered itself, and it’s rising, led by everyday heroes with vision and heart.