…urges bold push for economic growth

By Joseph Erunke, Abuja

Zimbabwe’s Vice President, Kembo Mohadi, joined an array of African political leaders, policymakers and business influencers at the just-concluded 2026 Iconic Africa Summit & Honors, where speakers issued a strong call for sustainable development, regional integration and accelerated economic growth across the continent.

Mohadi, alongside Zimbabwe’s Minister of Youth, Hon. Tino Machakaire, headlined the high-profile gathering held at the Rainbow Towers & Convention Centre in Harare over the weekend.

Addressing delegates, the Zimbabwean Vice President reaffirmed his country’s commitment to regional stability and economic advancement, stressing that Africa’s prosperity depends on stronger collaboration and shared responsibility.

The summit, themed “The Africa We Want: Sustainable Development; Everyone’s Responsibility,” convened an influential mix of heads of state, policymakers, corporate leaders and young innovators from more than 54 countries. Organisers said the event drew over 1,000 distinguished personalities, positioning it as one of the continent’s major platforms for dialogue and recognition.

The summit was organised by Iconic International Holdings (Pty) Ltd and the Mayorkings Charity Foundation under the leadership of Amb. Dr. Temisan O. Louis, who described the gathering as “more than an event.”

“It is a meeting point for influence, ideas and impact,” Louis said, urging participants to convert summit resolutions into measurable outcomes capable of creating jobs, scaling enterprises and securing prosperity for future generations.

A key highlight of this year’s edition was a strategic partnership with Concord For Young Women In Business Global Zimbabwe, led by Amb. Apphia N. Musavengana. She was appointed Executive Global Vice President of Iconic International Holdings and decorated at the event.

Organisers said the collaboration reinforced the summit’s commitment to gender-inclusive economic growth and the empowerment of female entrepreneurs across Africa.

The African Union Youth Council/Clubs and other prominent institutions also partnered with the organisers, further amplifying the summit’s continental reach.
AfCFTA, Borderless Africa in Focus
High-level panel discussions and keynote addresses emphasised the urgency of regional integration, indigenous entrepreneurship and full implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

Speakers advocated visa-free access across African countries to deepen trade, boost intra-African commerce and strengthen unity , echoing long-standing aspirations for a borderless continent.

Beyond policy conversations, the summit celebrated individuals and organisations whose work has significantly impacted Africa’s development landscape.

President Peter Mutharika (Malawi),was recognised for outstanding leadership and commitment to democratic governance at the event.

Also, the First Lady of Zimbabwe, Dr. Auxillia Mnangagwa , was awarded Iconic Woman of the Year for her philanthropic efforts through the Angel of Hope Foundation and her advocacy for marginalised communities.

His Royal Highness Prince Lindani (Kingdom of Eswatini) , honoured for youth empowerment and cultural diplomacy, while Hon. Tino Machakaire (Zimbabwe),acknowledged for proactive leadership in youth development as a driver of national unity.

Ndahafa Hapulile (Namibia), received the African Youth Ambassador Award and the Patrice Lumumba Leadership Excellence Award just as Babukisi Foundation (Eswatini) ,recognised for preserving Siswati culture and promoting global digital outreach.

In similar vein, Frank Mwenechanya (Malawi) , honoured for innovation in modern agriculture and irrigation.

As the curtains fell on the 2026 edition, participants left with renewed pledges to turn dialogue into action , and to ensure that the vision of “The Africa We Want” moves beyond rhetoric into tangible economic transformation.