By Funeka Sobantu

The African Genius Awards (AGA), founded by Dr Sifiso Falala, have rapidly become one of the continent’s most prestigious platforms for recognizing excellence and innovation. With a vision to celebrate Africa’s intellectuals, innovators, and leaders, the AGA acknowledges individuals who have made outstanding contributions in various fields, from science and medicine to education, the arts, and humanitarian work.

The luncheon featured an impressive lineup of speakers. Dr Pulane Molokwane, one of the Directors of the African Genius Awards, delivered a warm welcome address, setting the tone for the event. Dr Levy Motebejane, Global Ambassador of the African Tourism Board (ATB), presented an overview of the ATB’s ongoing initiatives aimed at promoting Africa’s cultural and tourism sectors.

The keynote address was delivered by Dr Sifiso Falala, CEO of Plus 94 Research and founder of the African Genius Awards. Dr Falala reflected on the significance of the awards, emphasising the importance of recognising and celebrating African talent and innovation. As Dr Falala noted in his keynote address: “Africa is filled with untapped potential, and the African Genius Awards seek to identify and reward those individuals whose work pushes the boundaries of what we can achieve as a continent. This is more than just an awards platform — it’s a movement.”

His message was complemented by insights from Mr. Saul Molobi, CEO of Brandhill Africa, who discussed the role of branding and diplomacy in shaping Africa’s global narrative.

During the South African luncheon, speakers reiterated the awards’ core mission: to amplify Africa’s homegrown genius and encourage a culture of excellence.

Molobi was followed by remarks from Ambassador André Nzapayeke, Dean of the African Diplomatic Corps, who presented the awards to the honoured recipients. In his remarks, Ambassador Nzapayeke emphasised the importance of initiatives like the African Genius Awards in showcasing Africa’s intellectual and creative achievements on the global stage. He highlighted the AGA’s role in reshaping the narrative around African excellence and creating a platform for collaboration across nations. By rallying the Africa Group of diplomatic Heads of Missions resident in South Africa, he underscored his commitment to uniting the diplomatic community in celebrating and uplifting Africa’s brightest minds.

Ambassador Nzapayeke also called for greater continental solidarity, encouraging African leaders and diplomats to actively participate in the AGA’s mission of identifying and honoring those who drive innovation, solve critical challenges, and contribute to Africa’s development. His endorsement of the AGA as a platform for building a stronger, more united Africa resonates with his longstanding dedication to advancing pan-African ideals.

The highlight of the afternoon came when the honorees were acknowledged for their achievements. Professor Mashudu Tshifularo, a pioneering surgeon who performed the world’s first middle-ear transplant using 3D-printed bones, was honored as the African Genius Laureate. His groundbreaking work not only positions him as a leader in medical innovation but also as a source of pride for South Africa and the entire continent. “Being recognised as an African Genius is humbling, but it’s also a call to continue pushing the boundaries for Africa’s future,” Tshifularo said during his acceptance speech.

Dr Imtiaz Sooliman, founder of the Gift of the Givers Foundation, received his nomination as an African Genius Nominee for his relentless humanitarian work. Since its inception, the Gift of the Givers has become one of the most respected organizations globally, providing disaster relief and aid to millions of people across Africa and the world. Dr Sooliman, reflecting on his recognition, stated: “We are all born to serve, and this award is a reflection of the collective work of many people who dedicate their lives to making a difference.”

In addition to celebrating the laureates and nominees, the event offered a unique platform for networking among key stakeholders, diplomats, business leaders, and cultural icons who share a vision for Africa’s future. Attendees left with a sense of inspiration, encouraged to continue their own contributions toward building a brighter and more prosperous Africa.

The luncheon culminated in a series of discussions about the future of the African Genius Awards and the potential expansion of its influence across the continent. Dr Pulane Molokwane, in her closing remarks, expressed the hope that future editions of the awards would further foster collaboration between African nations and strengthen the ties among Africa’s most brilliant minds.

The African Genius Awards 2024, held in Freetown, Sierra Leone, earlier in the year, marked an important milestone in this movement. As the awards continue to grow, they promise to be an enduring platform for celebrating Africa’s best and brightest while challenging the continent to keep dreaming, innovating, and leading on the world stage.

With these celebrations in South Africa, the legacy of the 2024 African Genius Awards and its honorees will undoubtedly inspire future generations of Africans to realise their potential and contribute to the continent’s progress.

Dr Ntokozo Mahlangu concluded the formal proceedings, highlighting the continued need for collaboration and excellence in every field across the continent.