The African Genius Awards (AGA) represent a crucial movement in rewriting the narrative surrounding Africa’s contributions to global progress. As the cradle of civilisation, Africa has always been at the forefront of innovation and human achievement, yet these contributions are often overlooked or under-appreciated by the world. Take for example Time magazine’s “100 Most Influential People in AI 2024” – only six of those listed are of African origin, and just two are based on the continent. This raises a pressing question: why are Africa’s contributions so underrepresented on the global stage?
The African Genius Awards (AGA) are not just another awards ceremony; they are a clarion call to recognise the undeniable contributions of African minds that have shaped and continue to influence the world. As Africa stands at the crossroads of global innovation, the AGA serves as a reminder that the continent’s narrative is not one of limitation but of boundless potential. For far too long, the brilliance of African talent has been either marginalised or viewed through a narrow lens of charity and aid. This perspective fails to grasp Africa’s rightful place as a powerhouse of intellectual, creative, and scientific achievement.
This Time magazine’s list is a stark reflection of the global misperception of Africa. While the inclusion of the six is a nod to Africa’s growing influence in the field, it also reveals a troubling imbalance in the recognition of African excellence. Names like Dr Chinasa T. Okolo and Mophat Okinyi stand as beacons of African expertise in AI, but their inclusion should be the rule, not the exception.
The brilliance of these recognised Africans is undeniable, but their recognition within the global AI landscape should be a wake-up call. While accolades such as Time’s list may give fleeting recognition to African talents, initiatives like the AGA strive to make this recognition long-lasting and truly pan-African. The AGA isn’t just about awarding individuals; it’s about changing the global perception of Africa from a continent of potential to one of realised brilliance.
It is time for Africans, and the world, to acknowledge the trailblazers who are leading the charge in fields such as technology, science, education, and the arts. While we celebrate their achievements, we must also question why initiatives like the African Genius Awards have not garnered the same global attention. This disconnect underscores a larger issue – the need for Africa to tell its own story, to celebrate its own achievements, and to elevate its own leaders.
The AGA offers an important platform for doing just that. It highlights the pioneers, innovators, thinkers, and leaders who are shaping Africa’s future, and by extension, the future of the world. It is crucial that African institutions, such as universities, governments, and corporate entities, rally behind this initiative. Universities like Fourah Bay College, the University of Johannesburg, and the University of Pretoria have already recognised the importance of supporting African genius. These institutions understand that to elevate Africa’s global standing, we must first uplift and celebrate our own.
But it is not enough for academic institutions and governments to carry the torch. The private sector in Africa has a significant role to play in this narrative. Africa’s corporate giants, whose successes are often built on the innovation and intellectual capital of the very individuals celebrated by the AGA, must step forward and invest in this homegrown initiative. The support of organisations like Plus 94 Research, led by Dr. Sifiso Falala, is commendable, but one cannot ignore the potential impact if more African corporations lent their weight to such efforts. It is time for the business community to recognise that investing in African genius is not just a moral imperative but a strategic one that will drive Africa’s competitive advantage on the global stage.
The African Genius Awards symbolise the reclaiming of Africa’s story, one that has been misrepresented for far too long. Through these awards, Africa tells the world that it is no longer content to be viewed as merely a beneficiary of global aid or as a repository of untapped potential. Africa is already contributing to the world in transformative ways, and initiatives like the AGA ensure that these contributions are celebrated, preserved, and elevated.
To African governments, corporations, and institutions – this is your moment to affirm Africa’s genius. By supporting the AGA, you are not just celebrating individuals; you are investing in the future of the continent. You are ensuring that Africa is recognised not just as the cradle of civilisation but as the cradle of innovation, leadership, and progress. The world must affirm Africa, but first, we must affirm ourselves. Through the African Genius Awards, we take one bold step closer to that goal.
For Africa to be affirmed globally, Africans themselves must first self-affirm. The AGA is a step in this direction, shining a spotlight on the extraordinary achievements of Africans and ensuring the world recognises Africa’s essential role in shaping the future. This self-affirmation, grounded in platforms like the AGA, is what will eventually compel the world to celebrate Africa as it should – an epicentre of ingenuity, leadership, and progress.
Watch the proceedings live tomorrow, Saturday 7 September from 18h00, on the following platforms: A y v television channel 33 and AYV News on Facebook; Liberty TV Online; African Genius Awards Facebook Page and YouTube Channel ; and The African Dream Facebook Page.
Tujenge Afrika Pamoja! Let’s Build Africa Together.
Enjoy your weekend.
Saul Molobi (FCIM)
PUBLISHER: JAMBO AFRICA ONLINE
and
Group Chief Executive Officer and Chairman
Brandhill Africa™
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