Okonjo-Iweala and Singer Tems Celebrate as They Make Africa’s ‘100 Most Remarkable Peace Icons’ List

Grammy-winning Nigerian vocalist Temilade Openiyi, popularly known as Tems, alongside Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Director-General of the World Trade Organization, have earned spots on the prestigious 2025 list of ‘100 Most Remarkable Peace Icons in Africa.’

The announcement was made during a press conference held in Abuja, unveiling a diverse group of distinguished Nigerians and Africans from various fields who have made significant contributions to peace and development.

Among the celebrated personalities is Egyptian football star Mohamed Salah of Liverpool FC. The list also features influential figures such as Nigerian entrepreneur Femi Oyetola, Dr. Angel Josephat Natianota, CEO of HR World Limited in Tanzania, Dr. Abdelhak Najib, and Dr. Imane Kendili from Morocco.

Zimbabwe’s Minister of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion, Professor Mthuli Ncube, and Munyakazi Sadate, CEO of Karame Rwanda Group, are also honored.

Ambassador Kingsley Amafibe, Project Director for Africa’s ‘100 Most Remarkable Peace Icons,’ explained that the honorees were chosen for their dedication to initiatives promoting development, peace, and youth empowerment across the continent.

“These icons come from all walks of life—leaders, economists, sports stars, religious figures, industrialists, entertainers, and traditional rulers—united by their commitment to fostering peace, unity, and progress in Africa,” Amafibe remarked.

The awards will be presented at the upcoming ‘100 Most Notable Africans Leadership and Business Summit’ slated for July in Kigali, Rwanda. The summit, themed ‘Leadership Frameworks for Governance, Business Growth, Investment Opportunities, and Sustainable Development in Africa,’ aims to gather experts, officials, entrepreneurs, and policymakers for dynamic discussions on Africa’s economic future.

Amafibe highlighted the importance of open dialogue amid global economic challenges, emphasizing the need for collaboration to unlock Africa’s vast potential. The summit promises engaging lectures, networking opportunities, and panel discussions focused on transparent governance, investment confidence, and cross-border cooperation in sectors like agriculture, education, and health.

By sharing these stories and celebrating these leaders, the initiative hopes to inspire collective action towards a peaceful, prosperous, and united Africa.