The Africa-America Institute (AAI) will host its prestigious 40th Annual Awards Gala on Tuesday, September 24, 2024, at Cipriani 42nd Street in New York City. The event, which aligns with the United Nations General Assembly, celebrates the remarkable achievements of Africans and the global African diaspora.
This year’s gala, themed “Bridging Cultures & Igniting Futures: An Evening Honoring African and Diasporan Visionaries in Arts and Culture,” promises to be an inspiring evening. A highlight of the night will be a Presidential Fireside Chatfeaturing His Excellency Nana Akufo-Addo, President of Ghana, and His Excellency Joseph Boakai, President of Liberia. The discussion will be moderated by Jennifer Zabasajja, Bloomberg Television’s Chief Africa Correspondent & Anchor, focusing on leadership, education, and development across Africa.
In a heartfelt tribute, the gala will honor the legacy of the late H.E. Dr. Hage Geingob, former President of Namibia and a distinguished AAI alumnus.
President Geingob, who passed away in February 2024, was a dedicated advocate for education and a key supporter of AAI’s mission. His life’s work and contributions to Namibia’s independence and education will be celebrated by African leaders, including Namibia’s current President, H.E. Dr. Nangolo Mbumba, and First Lady Monica Geingos.
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Reflecting on Geingob’s legacy, AAI President Kofi Appenteng remarked, “President Geingob’s passing was a profound loss for Namibia and the entire African continent. We are privileged to honor his memory and celebrate his enduring impact across Africa and its worldwide diaspora.”
The gala will also recognize Reeta Roy, President and CEO of the Mastercard Foundation, for her leadership in philanthropy and development. Entertainment for the evening will feature performances by the group Honey & Vinyl, while Chiney Ogwumike, ESPN host and two-time WNBA All-Star, will serve as the night’s emcee.
Since its inception in 1984, the AAI Annual Awards Gala has grown into a premier celebration of African excellence in New York City. The event brings together distinguished guests, including Heads of State, diplomats, business leaders, philanthropists, and scholars. Its mission is to highlight the successes of Africa and its diaspora while generating support for AAI’s initiatives, such as scholarships and educational programs.
Proceeds from the gala directly support AAI’s impactful work, including scholarships, the African Diplomatic Orientation and Engagement Program, and the State of Education on Africa Conference, continuing the organization’s legacy of empowering Africans and strengthening ties between Africa and the global community.
