Categories: Articles, Audrey Bernard,
The Africa-America Institute (AAI) marked a significant milestone with its 40th Annual Awards Gala, a premier annual event coinciding with the United Nations General Assembly. This prestigious event brought together distinguished leaders from Africa, across the Diaspora, and the United States to celebrate achievements in African leadership and philanthropy.
H.E. Hilda Suka-Mafudze, African Union Ambassador to the United Nations, introduced the presence of several esteemed African Heads of State, including H.E. Nana Akufo-Addo, President of the Republic of Ghana; H.E. Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr., President of the Republic of Liberia; H.E. Mokgweetsi Masisi, President of the Republic of Botswana; and H.E. Dr. Nangolo Mbumba, President of the Republic of Namibia.
Under the theme «Bridging Cultures & Igniting Futures: An Evening Honoring African and Diasporan Visionaries in Arts and Culture,” the elegance of the evening, held at Cipriani, was a testament to AAI’s commitment to bridging Africa and its Diaspora to catalyze a more sustainable and equitable world and was exquisite from beginning to end.
Kofi Appenteng, President & CEO of AAI, set the tone for an evening celebrating African Elegance. H.E. Linda Thomas-Greenfield, U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, conveyed welcome remarks on behalf of Vice President Kamala Harris, underscoring the significance of U.S.-Africa relations. New York City Mayor Eric Adams addressed the attendees, emphasizing the importance of African leadership and its impact on global affairs, and reminded guests to enjoy their stay in the city and “spend lots of money,” which received loud laughter.
In a heartfelt tribute, AAI honored beloved H.E. Dr. Hage Geingob, former President of the Republic of Namibia and a distinguished AAI alumnus. President Geingob, who passed away on February 4, 2024, was a champion of education and a steadfast supporter of AAI’s mission. His legacy was celebrated by numerous African leaders, including H.E. Mokgweetsi Masisi, President of Botswana, H.E. Dr. Nangolo Mbumba, President of the Republic of Namibia and AAI Alumnus, and H.E. Monica Geingos, 3rd First Lady of the Republic of Namibia, celebrating his life and legacy and highlighting his contributions to Namibia’s independence and education across Africa.
“President Geingob’s passing was a profound loss for Namibia and the entire African continent. We are privileged to honor his memory and celebrate his enduring impact across Africa and its worldwide Diaspora alongside many African leaders, current and past, at the 2024 AAI Gala,” stated President Appenteng.
The gala featured two major award presentations. The Philanthropic Impact Award was accepted by Reeta Roy, President and CEO of the Mastercard Foundation, recognizing the organization’s significant contributions to African development.Fred Swaniker introduced the award, highlighting the foundation’s transformative work. The Presidential Leadership Award was presented to H.E. Nana Akufo-Addo, President of the Republic of Ghana, in recognition of his outstanding leadership and commitment to advancing Ghana’s interests on the global stage and commitment to bridging Africa and the Diaspora. Christal Jackson, AAI Board Chair, provided remarks emphasizing the organization’s mission and impact.
This year’s gala featured the Presidential Fireside Chat with His Excellency Nana Akufo-Addo, President of the Republic of Ghana, and His Excellency Joseph Boakai, the President of Liberia. The discussion provided a platform for insightful dialogue on leadership, education, and development across Africa and was moderated by Jennifer Zabasajja, Bloomberg Television’s Chief Africa Correspondent & Anchor.
The elegant evening was emceed by Chiney Ogwumike, ESPN host, NBA analyst, and 2-Time WNBA All-Star, who was engaging and made the evening more enjoyable with her wit, style, and glamour.
Guests were treated to a musical performance of Valentine by Sonic Sommelier. Proceeds from the Annual Awards Gala fund AAI’s programs and initiatives, including AAI Scholarships, School Services Program, African Diplomatic Orientation and Engagement Program, and the State of Education on Africa Conference.
