By Suleman Chitera

LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM – Renowned Malawian development expert, education advocate, and women’s empowerment champion Dr. Chikondi Lisimba Mpokosa has received the highly respected Ubuntu Social Enterprise Excellence Award at the prestigious AfBC African Business Awards 2026 held in the United Kingdom.

The award celebrates outstanding African leaders and social entrepreneurs whose work has transformed communities and improved lives across Africa and the global diaspora. Dr. Mpokosa was recognised for her exceptional contribution to education, humanitarian response, women’s empowerment, disability inclusion, leadership development, and sustainable community transformation spanning more than two decades.Mwenefumbo Picks Zomba’s Mpokosa as Running Mate, Promises End to Regionalism and Youth Unemployment

The international recognition places Malawi firmly on the global map and highlights the country’s growing contribution to social innovation and development leadership.

Speaking after receiving the award, Dr. Mpokosa dedicated the honour to the resilient women and girls of Malawi and Africa who continue to overcome significant social and economic barriers.

“This award is not just about me. It belongs to every hardworking Malawian woman and girl who continues to rise above poverty, inequality, discrimination, and hardship to pursue education, leadership, dignity, and opportunity. Their resilience inspires me every day,” she said.NRWB Secures 47 million Euros (K90 billion) from European Investment Bank

She added that the award serves as powerful evidence that African women can drive transformational change when given opportunities and support.

“As a woman from Malawi, I carry the hopes of many girls who dream of becoming leaders, educators, entrepreneurs, and change-makers. This award is proof that our stories matter, our voices matter, and our leadership matters.”

With more than 26 years of experience in international development, Dr. Mpokosa has held senior leadership positions in globally respected organisations, including UNICEF, Oxfam, VSO, Leonard Cheshire Disability International, Opportunity International, and the Malala Fund.DPP, AFORD, and NDP seal historic electoral alliance ahead of 2025 Polls

She is also the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Youth Action for Sustainable Development (YA4SD) and Lion Olive Green Company Limited, organisations dedicated to advancing sustainable development, youth empowerment, education, and inclusive economic growth.

Throughout her distinguished career, Dr. Mpokosa has championed inclusive education, girls’ education, disability rights, gender equality, humanitarian assistance, and community empowerment initiatives across numerous countries in Africa and Asia. Her work has particularly focused on supporting marginalised communities, conflict-affected children, and women excluded from economic opportunities.

Receiving the Ubuntu Social Enterprise Excellence Award marks another major milestone in her career and reinforces her reputation as one of Africa’s leading voices for social justice and sustainable development.

Dr. Mpokosa also expressed gratitude to communities, development partners, mentors, and young people who have supported her mission throughout the years.Frank Mwenefumbo condemns November 13 situation in Lilongwe ahead of demonstrations

“This recognition strengthens my commitment to continue advocating for women, girls, education, and inclusive development. We must continue creating opportunities where no girl is left behind and no woman is denied the chance to achieve her full potential.”

The Ubuntu Social Enterprise Excellence Award embodies the African philosophy of Ubuntu—humanity, compassion, shared responsibility, and collective progress—and honours leaders whose work demonstrates these values through meaningful and lasting impact.

For Malawi, Dr. Mpokosa’s achievement stands as a source of national pride and an inspiration to young women, development practitioners, and future leaders striving to create positive change in their communities and beyond.Malawi’s Gold Mystery: Who Is Benefiting While the Nation Remains Poor?