Olori Atuwatse III Delivers Keynote at African Achievers Awards, Strengthens Royal Partnership with Zulu Nation

Her Majesty Olori Atuwatse III, Queen of Warri Kingdom, delivered the keynote address at the African Achievers Awards held this week in London, reflecting on the growing mission that shapes much of her global work—Elevate Africa.

Addressing an audience of distinguished leaders, policy thinkers, reformers, and cultural stewards, the Queen spoke on the strategic importance of convenings as tools for continental progress. She described gatherings not as ceremonial events, but as structured instruments designed to align purpose, policy, and coordinated action across Africa.

She highlighted the disconnect between governance, investment, and cultural leadership. “Elevate Africa was created to bridge these lanes, bringing together the people and institutions shaping the continent’s future into coherent, high-impact alignment.”

She outlined the platform’s three core pillars: leadership and governance, investment and trade, and culture and heritage and emphasised Elevate Africa’s commitment to implementation through convenings, fellowships, and media.

Referencing the success of last year’s convening in Abuja, where multi-sectoral commitments were made, Her Majesty invited leaders in attendance to the upcoming 2025 convening, which will take place in Gaborone, Botswana, under the theme Africa: The Next Chapter. Botswana, she noted, stands as a compelling host due to its record of institutional clarity and visionary leadership.

Royal Alliance: Warri and Zulu Kingdoms

During the evening’s proceedings, Her Majesty experienced a moment of personal and diplomatic significance. She met Her Majesty Queen Sihle Mdluli, wife of His Majesty King Misuzulu kaZwelithini, Queen of the Zulu Nation. In a symbolic and intimate gesture, Queen Ntokozo gifted her a traditional Zulu hat—a sign of kinship, cultural honour, and respect.

That encounter marks a deepening alliance between the Warri and Zulu kingdoms, following King Misuzulu’s visit to KwaZulu-Natal by His Majesty the Olu of Warri in May. The partnership is expected to expand opportunities for cultural diplomacy, intergenerational exchange, and royal collaboration across Southern and West Africa.

Elevate Africa: Vision in Action

Her Majesty affirmed that Elevate Africa's work continues through strategic convenings, cross-sector collaboration, and a unified vision that transforms potential into progress.