DE

2024 Africa Freedom Prize
Honouring President Wavel Ramkalawan of the Seychelles

A celebration of intergenerational co-leadership and the future of freedom in Africa
Wavel Ramkalawan

Seychelles President, Wavel Ramkalawan

© Wikipedia

The Friedrich Naumann Foundation for Freedom (FNF Africa) is delighted to announce the 2024 Africa Freedom Prize, an event recognising exceptional contributions to liberal civil society in Africa. The theme, "Intergenerational Co-leadership and the Future of Freedom in Africa," underscores the importance of young leaders shaping the continent's future alongside established leaders.

This prestigious event, hosted in partnership with the African Leadership Academy (ALA), will highlight the role of liberalism, democracy, and freedom across the continent. Since its inauguration in 2016, the Africa Freedom Prize has recognised leaders who have significantly advanced human rights, democracy, and good governance. Past laureates include prominent figures such as Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, Bobi Wine, and Hakainde Hichilema.

Africa Freedom Prize

President Wavel Ramkalawan to receive the 2024 Africa Freedom Prize.

© Friedrich Naumann Foundation for Freedom

The 2024 Africa Freedom Prize will be awarded to His Excellency President Wavel Ramkalawan of Seychelles, whose leadership in promoting democracy and freedom has set an example across Africa. His work aligns with FNF Africa's core values of freedom, democracy, and the rule of law.

The 2024 prize ceremony, scheduled for 6 November, will place a strong emphasis on intergenerational co-leadership, focusing on the collaboration between established and emerging leaders to secure a democratic and prosperous future for Africa. The event will encourage meaningful dialogue on how generations can work together to address the continent's most pressing challenges.

Africa Freedom Prize

A cartoonist's impression of President Wavel Ramkalawan with the Africa Freedom Prize

© Friedrich Naumann Foundation for Freedom

Central to this conversation is the role of young leaders, a priority for the African Leadership Academy since its establishment in 2008. ALA has nurtured and supported young African leaders who are committed to transforming the continent. By partnering with ALA, FNF Africa aims to create platforms that empower youth leadership and encourage their active engagement in governance.

The Africa Freedom Prize ceremony will honour President Ramkalawan’s achievements while providing a platform for dialogue between experienced leaders and the next generation of African change-makers. Discussions and presentations will explore leadership, freedom, and governance, with an emphasis on how established leaders can nurture young talent. The event will reinforce the importance of collaboration between generations in driving progress.

The FNF Africa Freedom Prize - “Then, now and beyond”

Freedom in Africa

The Africa Freedom Prize was introduced in 2016 and it honours outstanding personalities who provide decisive impulses for the development of liberal civil society in African countries. Today, well known South African media personality Redi Tlhabi hosts the Africa Freedom Prize — “Then, Now and Beyond” feature that is looking back at the past recipients of the award. More importantly, we reflect on where the continent is today and more.

Read more