Casablanca, Morocco, February 21 – 22, 2025 – Dr. Hassan Basajjabalaba, founder of Kampala International University (KIU), Uganda, has been honoured with the African Educationist of the Year award at the prestigious 14th African Leadership Magazine Persons of the Year (POTY) Ceremony, held at the Casablanca Marriott Hotel, Morocco, from February 21–22, 2025.
Dr. Basajjabalaba has been recognised for his outstanding contributions to higher education in Africa, dedication to academic excellence, and commitment to expanding access to quality education. Under his leadership, Kampala International University (KIU) has grown into one of Uganda’smost reputable institutions, providing world-class education, research opportunities, and fostering innovation across the continent. His vision has helped shape future African leaders and professionals across various sectors.
The African Leadership Magazine Persons of the Year (POTY) Ceremony is an annual flagship event that brings together policymakers, business leaders, civil society actors, and thought leaders from across Africa and beyond. The event serves as a platform to celebrate outstanding African leaders who are making significant contributions to the continent’s growth and development.
Other Distinguished Honourees at the 14th Edition Include:
- H.E. Andry Rajoelina, President of Madagascar—African Political Leader of the Year
- H.E. Bassirou Faye, President of Senegal—African of the Year
- H.E. Joao Lourenco, President of Angola—African Peace and Security Leader of the Year
- H.E. Robinah Nabbanja, Prime Minister of Uganda—African Female Leader of the Year
- H.E. Dithapelo Keorapetse, Speaker of Botswana’s National Assembly—African Lawmaker of the Year
- Bridgette Motsepe, Founder/Chairperson, Mmakau Mining, South Africa—African Industrialist of the Year
- Professor Charles Anosike, Director General of the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NIMET), Nigeria
- H.E. Douye Diri, Governor of Bayelsa State, Nigeria
- Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng Ocero, Minister for Health, Uganda
- H.E. Fardowsa Osman Egal, Minister for Transport & Civil Aviation, Somalia
- Hon. Nani Juwara, Minister of Petroleum, Energy & Mines, The Gambia
- H.E. Rindra Rabarinirinarison, Minister of Economy and Finance, Madagascar
- Hon. Augustine Kpehe Ngafuan, Minister of Finance and Development Planning, Liberia
- Hon. Lefoko Maxwell Moagi, Former Minister of Minerals and Energy, Botswana
- Dr. Armstrong Takang, Managing Director of the Ministry of Finance Incorporated (MOFI), Nigeria
- Mr. Mustafa Y. Shek, Director General of the National Communication Authority, Somalia
Prominent business leaders, including Dr. Seinye O.B. Lulu-Briggs, Executive Chairman of Moni Polu Limited, and Olusegun Alebiosu, Managing Director/CEO of FirstBank Group, Nigeria, were also in attendance.
The event attracted high-profile delegates from across Africa, including Ethiopia, Nigeria, Madagascar, Angola, Uganda, South Sudan, Zimbabwe, Congo, Cape Verde, Botswana, South Africa, and Kenya, highlighting the pan-African significance of the awards.
AUTHOR
Blossom Ukoha – African Leadership Magazine
