Ugandan businesswoman and philanthropist Jane Frances Acilo has been appointed a Global Ambassador of Elevate Africa. This recognition was given during the Elevate Africa Convening 2026, held from October 28 to 29 at the Mövenpick Ambassador Hotel in Accra, Ghana. The event was themed "Africa: Defining Her Future." Acilo's appointment places her among African leaders working to promote the continent's interests and support community development programs.
Acilo received the recognition for her efforts in promoting community development, women's and youth empowerment, education, and community wellbeing through her foundation, the Jane Acilo Foundation. Her new role is expected to provide opportunities to establish partnerships with organizations and individuals working in similar areas across Africa. This appointment also highlights Acilo's commitment to telling Africa's story with conviction, credibility, and pride.
Speaking after receiving the recognition, Acilo emphasized the importance of Africans taking responsibility for telling their own stories and influencing decisions that affect the continent. She believes that Africans must move beyond allowing others to define their continent and take a more active role in shaping conversations, partnerships, and decisions that influence their collective future.
The two-day gathering in Accra attracted several African leaders and former heads of state who discussed governance, economic integration, leadership, and Africa's position in international affairs. Notable attendees included former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan, former Malawian President Joyce Banda, and former Ghanaian President John Agyekum Kufuor. Discussions focused on the need for African countries to work together to address development challenges and expand economic opportunities.
Acilo's interactions with leaders from different African countries have reinforced the importance of partnerships in supporting community development. She also called for leadership that creates opportunities for others and produces results at the community level. Acilo expressed her gratitude for the recognition and her commitment to using her ambassadorial role to support initiatives that benefit communities.
The Elevate Africa Global Ambassadors Program brings together individuals from across the continent to promote African perspectives, encourage cooperation, and support development initiatives. Acilo's appointment is expected to contribute to the program's goals and promote Africa's strengths. Her work through the Jane Acilo Foundation has been involved in initiatives aimed at improving livelihoods and expanding opportunities for vulnerable communities.
Acilo thanked Elevate Africa for recognizing her work and expressed her commitment to using her role to support community development initiatives. Her new role is expected to provide a platform for her to demonstrate Africa's contributions to global development through substance, innovation, and results.
Key points
- Jane Frances Acilo was appointed as a Global Ambassador of Elevate Africa during the Elevate Africa Convening 2026 in Accra, Ghana.
- Acilo aims to promote African perspectives, encourage cooperation, and support development initiatives through her new role.
- The Elevate Africa Global Ambassadors Program brings together individuals to promote African leadership, partnerships, and community development.
