Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema has been honoured with the African Inspirational Leadership Award at the 2026 International Forum on African-Caribbean Leadership (IFAL). The award ceremony took place on 24 September at the Marriott Marquis in New York during the United Nations General Assembly week. This recognition was conferred during the forum's Recognitions and Awards presentation, hosted by African Leadership Magazine. President Hichilema's journey from business leadership to the presidency was highlighted.
The African Inspirational Leadership Award recognises President Hichilema's advocacy for private-sector-led economic growth across Africa. Before entering national politics, he built a business career, serving as chief executive of Coopers Lybrand Zambia and Grant Thornton Zambia. He also chaired the boards of Barclays Bank Zambia, Sun International, and Africa Trade Insurance. This background in business and leadership contributed to his recognition at IFAL 2026.
President Hichilema was elected President of Zambia in August 2021. His presidency focuses on leveraging his business acumen to drive economic growth. The award acknowledges his efforts to promote private-sector-led economic development in Zambia and across Africa. IFAL 2026 brought together heads of state, policymakers, investors, and private-sector leaders from Africa and the Caribbean.
The International Forum on African-Caribbean Leadership (IFAL) is a flagship event of the African Leadership Magazine. It is convened annually on the margins of the United Nations General Assembly. IFAL aims to strengthen trans-regional cooperation, trade, and investment between Africa and the Caribbean. The forum provides a platform for leaders to discuss and address common challenges and opportunities.
IFAL 2026 saw several other notable recognitions and awards. Mr. Khulekani Mathe will receive the African Leadership Award for Excellence in Economic Policy and Private Sector Advocacy. Dr. Kelly Oluoch will be awarded the African Health and Institutional Development Leadership Excellence Award. Additionally, Mr. Mohamed Abdellahi Ould Yaha will be conferred with the African Leadership Excellence Award in Entrepreneurship and Industrial Development.
The African Leadership Magazine hosted the Recognitions and Awards presentation at IFAL 2026. King Richard Igimoh, Group Editor of African Leadership Magazine, is the media contact for further information. The magazine is based in the United Kingdom and can be reached via email at [email protected] or through their website.
The African Inspirational Leadership Award is a significant recognition of President Hichilema's leadership and advocacy for private-sector-led economic growth. This award at IFAL 2026 highlights his contributions to economic development in Zambia and Africa. The event demonstrated the commitment of African and Caribbean leaders to fostering cooperation and growth.
Key points
- President Hakainde Hichilema received the African Inspirational Leadership Award at IFAL 2026.
- The award recognises his advocacy for private-sector-led economic growth across Africa.
- IFAL 2026 was held on the margins of the United Nations General Assembly in New York.
