Tems, Okonjo-Iweala Named Among 2025 ‘100 Most Notable Peace Icons in Africa’
Nigerian music star Temilade Openiyi, popularly known as Tems, and Director-General of the World Trade Organisation (WTO), Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, have been named among the 2025 edition of 100 Most Notable Peace Icons in Africa.
Their inclusion was officially announced on Wednesday at a press conference held in Abuja by the organisers of the prestigious recognition, which celebrates influential Africans championing peace, development, and humanitarian causes across the continent.
Also making the list is Egyptian footballer Mohamed Salah of Liverpool FC, alongside other notable figures such as Nigerian businessman Femi Oyetola, Dr Angel Josephat Natianota of HR World Limited in Tanzania, and Moroccan peace advocates Dr Abdelhak Najib and Dr Imane Kendili.
Other recipients include Prof Mthuli Ncube, Zimbabwe’s Minister of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion, and Munyakazi Sadate, CEO of Karame Rwanda Group.
Ambassador Kingsley Amafibe, Project Director of the 100 Most Notable Peace Icons Africa, said the honourees were selected for their outstanding commitment to humanitarian initiatives, youth empowerment, and efforts to promote peace and unity within their communities and beyond.
“These individuals have demonstrated resilience and have used their platforms to drive positive change, mentor new leaders, and contribute to economic growth across Africa,” Amafibe said.
According to him, the selection criteria focused on individuals who have made significant contributions in areas such as governance, sports, business, entertainment, and grassroots development, all of which are crucial to fostering peace and stability in Africa.
The award ceremony will take place in July during the 100 Most Notable Africans Leadership and Business Summit in Kigali, Rwanda. Themed ‘Leadership Frameworks for Governance, Business Growth, Investment Opportunities and Sustainable Development in Africa’, the summit aims to unite policymakers, entrepreneurs, government officials, and development experts for strategic conversations on Africa’s future.
Amafibe noted that with the continent facing numerous economic and social challenges, platforms like the summit are vital for encouraging collaboration, cross-border partnerships, and initiatives that can drive sustainable development.
Panel sessions and networking opportunities during the event will focus on governance transparency, regional cooperation, investment-friendly policies, and sectoral innovations in education, agriculture, and health.
“These peace icons have left lasting legacies and continue to shape the narrative of Africa through unity, harmony, and progress,” Amafibe concluded.
