At the Elevate Africa Convening in Botswana, Her Majesty Olori Atuwatse III joined distinguished leaders and changemakers in advancing a shared vision for Africa’s next chapter. The convening emphasised that the continent’s progress must be grounded in unity, trust, and the courage to lead together.
Throughout the dialogues, one truth stood firm: Africa holds the capacity to design its systems, tell its story, and shape its destiny. In her address, Her Majesty spoke on trust as the foundation of transformation. She noted that while Africa continues to succeed across individual nations, lasting progress is built through connection. Alignment strengthens vision, and collaboration multiplies impact.
The Elevate Africa Fellowship, which brings together seventeen high-impact leaders from thirteen nations, exemplifies this spirit of collective purpose — leadership that is principled, people-focused, and globally engaged.
During the convening, distinguished voices contributed insight and strengthened shared commitment. His Excellency Governor Benjamin Cheboi, EBS, underscored that strong institutions sustain governance. Her Excellency Dr Ameenah Gurib-Fakim framed challenges as opportunities for innovation and reminded participants that transformation begins when policy meets imagination. Hon. Kadiva Hamutumwa emphasised inclusion and participatory democracy anchored in equality, while Hon. Ketlhalefile Motshegwa reaffirmed Botswana’s enduring model of unity and accountability.
Mr Wei Neng Wu, CEO of the Chandler Institute of Governance, offered practical perspectives on building capable institutions, noting that true success is measured by outcomes citizens can see and feel.
During the Governance and Policy Roundtable, moderated by Mr Tim Hanstad of the Chandler Foundation, Hon. Dr Frank Amoakohene highlighted transparency and the role of digital platforms in restoring public trust. Their reflections captured the essence of Elevate Africa — systems that deliver, leadership that serves, and progress that citizens experience.
Each plenary reinforced the belief that Africa’s advancement depends on internal conviction. Governance must perform, women’s leadership must transform, economies must create value, and culture must unite purpose with pride.
Her Majesty extended appreciation to the Elevate Africa team led by CEO Mr Daniel Ikuenobe, as well as to Dr Ameenah Gurib-Fakim, Governor Benjamin Cheboi, EBS, Hon. Kadiva Hamutumwa, Hon. Dr Frank Amoakohene, Hon. Ketlhalefile Motshegwa, Mr Tim Hanstad, and Mr Wei Neng Wu for their wisdom and partnership.
Her Majesty affirmed that Africa’s story continues to unfold in harmony and purpose — a story defined by courage, character, and collaboration.
