By Suleman Chitera
President Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika is set to receive a major continental accolade after being nominated for the Iconic Africa Honours 2026, in recognition of his historic political achievement and contribution to democratic governance in the Southern African region.
Mutharika will be honoured for becoming the first politician in the SADC region to win presidential elections twice while coming from the opposition, a milestone that has positioned him as a standout figure in Africa’s democratic evolution. The awards ceremony will take place on 13 February 2026 in Harare, Zimbabwe, bringing together distinguished leaders, innovators and change-makers from across the continent.
The recognition places Malawi prominently on the African leadership map, celebrating a legacy marked by resilience, constitutionalism and electoral competitiveness. Organisers say the honour reflects Mutharika’s enduring influence on multiparty democracy and peaceful political transitions in Africa.
Malawi will also be strongly represented through other high-profile nominees drawn from governance, innovation and sustainable development sectors. Among those nominated are Ben Phiri, Director General of the Malawi Communications Regulatory Authority (MACRA), recognised for his leadership in the regulation and transformation of the communications sector; Maya Nkoloma, founder of M-Hub, for advancing technology and innovation ecosystems; Dr. Racheal Sibande, a globally celebrated entrepreneur and tech champion; and Frank Mwenechanya, founder of the Foundation for Irrigation and Sustainable Development (FISP), for his work in climate resilience and sustainable agriculture.
The 2026 awards will be convened under the theme “The Africa We Want: Sustainable Development, Everyone’s Responsibility,” underscoring the shared role of leaders, institutions and citizens in building a prosperous, inclusive and resilient continent.
Organisers of the Iconic Africa Honours say the event is designed not only to celebrate excellence, but also to inspire a new generation of African leaders committed to innovation, accountability and sustainable development. With multiple Malawians featured among the honourees, the ceremony is expected to shine a spotlight on Malawi’s growing contribution to Africa’s leadership, innovation and development agenda.
As anticipation builds toward the Harare ceremony, the nominations are being hailed as a moment of pride—both for the individuals recognised and for Malawi’s standing on the continental stage.
