2024 Africa Freedom Prize

Intergenerational co-leadership and the future of freedom in Africa

The Friedrich Naumann Foundation for Freedom (FNF Africa) hosted the 2024 Africa Freedom Prize Award, in partnership with the African Leadership Academy (ALA). This prestigious event recognises exceptional contributions to liberal civil society in Africa, focusing specifically on the role of liberalism, democracy, and freedom across the continent. The 2024 Africa Freedom Prize was awarded to His Excellency President Wavel Ramkalawan of Seychelles, whose leadership in promoting democracy and freedom has set a notable example across Africa. His work reflects FNF Africa's core values of freedom, democracy, and the rule of law.

Intergenerational co-leadership

With the theme, Intergenerational Co-Leadership and the Future of Freedom in Africa, the event aimed to highlight the prominence of young leaders who are shaping the continent's future in collaboration with established leaders. Emphasis was placed on the power of intergenerational co-leadership, which showcases the partnership between seasoned and emerging leaders working together for a democratic and prosperous future for Africa. To underscore youth leadership, the event was hosted by ALA students Meriam Triki, Chairperson of the African Leadership Academy Model African Union from Tunisia, and Nabwire Goretty Maria, Co-Chair of the ALA Honour Council from Uganda.

Teamwork for Africa's development

In her welcome remarks as Director of FNF Sub-Saharan Africa, Ms. Inge Herbert highlighted that the event was about celebrating the remarkable leadership of H.E. President Ramkalawan, as well as honouring the powerful spirit of teamwork between generations that drives real change on the continent. She pointed out that under President Ramkalawan’s leadership, Seychelles has become a model of freedom and democracy, ranking as the least corrupt country in Africa and the top nation for good governance on the continent. Ms. Herbert further acknowledged Africa’s youth for challenging the status quo and advocating for a brighter future, recognising that each generation has a role to play in Africa's development.

The CEO of the African Leadership Academy, Mr. Hatim Eltayeb, in his keynote address, praised the President’s exemplary leadership and emphasised that, as communities of leaders, “we should learn together, build together, and create a legacy that lasts long after we are gone.” He also announced a full scholarship for the first student from Seychelles to join ALA, underscoring the institution's commitment to building a leadership community in Africa, for Africa, by Africans.

Dialogue on leadership and democracy

In a mission to inspire meaningful dialogue on intergenerational collaboration in addressing Africa’s most pressing challenges, Denver Munyaradzi Musamirapamwe, President of the African Leadership Debate Union, TEDx Chair, and ALAMAU Committee Chair from Zimbabwe, facilitated a discussion with the President. This dialogue highlighted the President’s resilience, principles, and vision for leadership and democracy in Seychelles and across Africa. President Ramkalawan urged young leaders to know themselves, adhere to principles, avoid shortcuts, and fight for what is right.

Upon receiving the Freedom Prize Award, President Ramkalawan reflected on his political journey, sharing that his goal has always been to bring democratic change to his country, establishing clear principles that transformed Seychelles. He advocated for the liberal principles of human rights and a strong, inclusive economic system. In closing, he expressed a vision for “an Africa where guns are laid down and silenced, a place where the young people of Africa lead the continent towards peace, democracy, and economic development, giving our continent the respect it deserves on the world stage.”

Encouraging youth engagement and active citizenship

The event provided young people with a valuable platform to engage with the President, while also honouring his commitment to Seychelles and Africa. As an educational opportunity, the gathering reinforced the idea that leadership is driven by principles rather than positions. Additionally, youth engagement, active citizenship, and the importance of young people exercising their right to vote were highlighted as crucial to leadership and governance in Africa.