Togo's Foreign Minister, Professor Robert Dussey, has been honored with the Most Influential 100 Hall of Fame Award, also known as the Global Minister of the Year. The award was presented on September 23, 2026, during the recognition week of the Most Influential People of African Descent (MIPAD) initiative, held on the sidelines of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly. This distinction acknowledges the action and impact of individuals of African descent in various fields. In Dussey's case, it recognizes his diplomatic efforts, particularly in promoting African interests globally.
The award ceremony took place in New York, highlighting the Togolese diplomacy's significant presence at the UN General Assembly. According to sources, the award acknowledges Dussey's role in Togo's diplomatic initiatives, his commitment to multilateralism, and Lomé's stance on several international issues. One notable initiative is "Correct the Map," a campaign promoting a more equitable cartographic representation of the world's regions, especially Africa. The UN General Assembly adopted a resolution on this matter on September 4, 2026.
The Togolese diplomacy is actively engaged in finding solutions to African crises, including mediation efforts in the east of the Democratic Republic of Congo and the Great Lakes region, supported by the African Union. Robert Dussey reacted to this recognition by expressing gratitude to MIPAD and its community. He dedicated the award to Togo, President Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé, the African Union, and civil society organizations working on these causes.
For Dussey, this distinction is an encouragement to continue his commitment to Africa and its diaspora. He emphasized that the recognition goes beyond his person and is a testament to the collective action taken to defend African interests on the international stage. The MIPAD program is an international initiative that highlights individuals of African descent for their achievements and impact in various sectors.
MIPAD's Hall of Fame has already honored several international personalities, including prominent African leaders and officials. With this new distinction, Robert Dussey joins the circle of personalities recognized by MIPAD for their influence and contribution in their respective fields. This recognition comes as Togo seeks to strengthen its presence in international debates on peace, multilateralism reform, African representation, and defense of the Global South's interests.
For Robert Dussey, being named Global Minister of the Year should serve as an incentive to continue efforts towards peace, inclusion, and greater consideration of African interests in international institutions. This distinction once again puts Togolese diplomacy in the spotlight in New York, during one of the main annual diplomatic events. The award is seen as a motivation to pursue his engagement for the benefit of Africa and its diaspora.
The recognition of Robert Dussey's efforts by MIPAD and the international community underscores the importance of Togo's diplomatic initiatives. As the country continues to play an active role in international affairs, this award serves as a testament to its growing influence. The Togolese Foreign Minister's commitment to promoting African interests and his dedication to multilateralism have earned him this prestigious recognition.
Key points
- Robert Dussey, Togo's Foreign Minister, was honored with the Most Influential 100 Hall of Fame Award.
- The award recognizes Dussey's diplomatic efforts, particularly in promoting African interests globally.
- The distinction serves as an incentive for Dussey to continue his commitment to Africa and its diaspora.
