Grammy Award-winning Nigerian singer Temilade Openiyi, popularly known as Tems, and World Trade Organisation Director-General, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, have been recognized as two of the continent’s most influential figures in peace and development. They are featured in the prestigious 2025 ‘100 Most Notable Peace Icons Africa’ list, unveiled during a press conference on Wednesday in Abuja.
The exclusive list, curated to honour Africans making a significant impact in promoting peace, development, and unity, features personalities from various industries including music, sports, business, politics, and humanitarian work.
Joining Tems and Okonjo-Iweala is Egyptian football icon Mohamed Salah, whose global stardom with Liverpool FC and philanthropic work continue to inspire millions across Africa and beyond.
Other notable honorees include Nigerian entrepreneur Femi Oyetola, Dr. Angel Josephat Natianota, CEO of HR World Limited Tanzania, and Moroccan leaders Dr. Abdelhak Najib and Dr. Imane Kendili. Also recognized are 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 for Africa 100 Most Notable Peace Icons, explained that these honorees were selected for their dedication to humanitarian efforts, youth empowerment, and development initiatives that foster peace across the continent.
“This initiative stands as a testament to our commitment to acknowledging and applauding remarkable individuals and the key roles they play in nurturing peace, harmony, and positive change on the African continent,” Amafibe said.
He further emphasized that these icons have “transcended boundaries and overcome challenges” to leave indelible marks in their respective fields, embodying Africa’s cherished values of unity, harmony, and progress.
The award presentation will take place during the ‘100 Most Notable Africans Leadership and Business Summit’, slated for July in Kigali, Rwanda. This year’s theme, ‘Leadership Frameworks for Governance, Business Growth, Investment Opportunities and Sustainable Development in Africa’, sets the tone for what promises to be a landmark event.
Expected to draw a diverse pool of economic experts, government officials, entrepreneurs, and policymakers, the summit will provide a dynamic platform to discuss Africa’s economic resilience, investment potential, and strategic development.
“Africa, with its diverse people, landscapes, and dynamic population, presents a compelling invitation. This event is a dynamic platform for us to come together and explore significant trends, challenges, and opportunities for collaborations,” Amafibe noted.
Panels and lectures will focus on topics such as transparent governance, cross-border trade, and sustainable investment strategies all designed to elevate Africa’s position on the global stage while reinforcing the values celebrated by the peace icons.
Tems and Okonjo-Iweala’s inclusion in this elite roster not only honors their individual contributions but also highlights the growing influence of Nigerian and African figures shaping global conversations on peace, leadership, and empowerment.
