Niël Terblanché
The Africa-America Institute (AAI) is set to host its 40th Annual Awards Gala, bringing together some of Africa’s most influential leaders and global figures in a celebration of African achievement and the African diaspora.
The gala, which will take place on Tuesday, at Cipriani 42nd Street in New York City, coincides with the United Nations General Assembly, adding to the international significance of the event.
This year’s gala, themed “Bridging Cultures and Igniting Futures: An Evening Honouring African and Diasporan Visionaries in Arts and Culture,” will feature a Presidential Fireside Chat with Nana Akufo-Addo, President of the Republic of Ghana, and Joseph Boakai, President of Liberia.
The gala will also honour President Hage Geingob, the former President of the Republic of Namibia and a distinguished AAI alumnus, who passed away on 4 February 2024.
Geingob, a champion of education and a staunch supporter of AAI’s mission played a significant role in Namibia’s independence and development.
His life and legacy will be celebrated by a number of African leaders, including Nangolo Mbumba, President of Namibia, and Monica Geingos, Namibia’s third First Lady, both of whom are AAI alumni.
The AAI said in a statement that these two African leaders, renowned for their contributions to their respective nations, will share their insights on the future of the continent.
Their tribute will highlight Dr. Geingob’s contributions to education and his impact on Namibia’s post-independence trajectory.
AAI President Kofi Appenteng reflected on the loss of President Geingob and said: “President Geingob’s passing was a profound loss for Namibia and the entire African continent. We are privileged to honour 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.”
The discussion promises to delve into the topics of leadership, education, and development across Africa.
Since its establishment in 1984, AAI’s Annual Awards Gala has become a cornerstone event in New York City, celebrating the achievements of Africans and the African diaspora.
The gala, held annually during the United Nations General Assembly, brings together an esteemed array of guests, including heads of state, diplomats, international officials, business leaders, and scholars.
The event serves not only as a platform for recognition but also as a fundraiser, supporting AAI’s wide-ranging programs and initiatives, which include scholarships, school services, and diplomatic engagement programs.
AAI has a longstanding history of fostering education and leadership across the African continent.
Since its founding in 1953, the institute has provided scholarships and fellowships to over 23,000 Africans, including notable alumni such as Cyril Ramaphosa, President of South Africa; Alassane Ouattara, President of Côte d’Ivoire; and Nobel Laureate Dr. Wangari Maathai.
Through its initiatives, AAI continues to bridge Africa and its diaspora, working towards a more sustainable and equitable future.
