Events Category: Conference
GLOBAL AVIATION MARITIME & MOBILITY ACCESS SUMMIT (GAMMA 2026)
Event
Africa’s Premier Platform for Integrated Transport Connectivity (GAMMA) 2026
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- 5 November 2026
- Lagos Oriental Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos
- ELIAD + Aspire West Africa
- Aspire West Africa
GAMMA 2026
The Global Gateway To Africa's Transport, Aviation & Maritime Future
The Global Aviation, Maritime & Mobility Access Summit (GAMMA) 2026 is Africa’s leading integrated transport and mobility platform, bringing together ministers, regulators, airlines, ports, airports, logistics giants, infrastructure investors, technology innovators, and mobility leaders shaping the future of African connectivity.
Hosted in Lagos, Nigeria — one of Africa’s largest commercial and aviation hubs — GAMMA 2026 will serve as a strategic meeting point for policy dialogue, investment partnerships, trade facilitation, innovation showcases, and high-level industry collaboration across aviation, maritime, rail, logistics, urban mobility, and transport infrastructure
Global Leadership and Innovation Conference 2026
EVENT
Global Leadership and Innovation Conference 2026
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- 27 March, 2026
- Safari Park Hotel, Nairobi, Kenya
- ELIAD + Aspire West Africa
- Aspire West Africa
Event Overview
The ELIAD Global Leadership & Innovation Conference 2026, held at Safari Park Hotel in Nairobi, brought together leading policymakers, business executives, innovators, and thought leaders from across Africa to discuss transformational leadership, innovation, and sustainable development under the theme, “From Vision to Victory – Leadership that Transforms Africa.”
ELIAD GLOBAL LEADERSHIP AND INNOVATION CONFERENCE, Nairobi 2026
From Vision to Victory — Leadership that Transforms Africa
Held at the prestigious Safari Park Hotel in Nairobi, the ELIAD Global Leadership & Innovation Conference 2026 brought together distinguished policymakers, business leaders, innovators, and institutional stakeholders from across Africa for a powerful dialogue on transformational leadership, innovation, and sustainable development.
Organized alongside the African Prestige 100 Honoris Awards, the conference explored key themes around institution building, enterprise growth, governance, collaboration, and legacy-driven leadership shaping Africa’s future.
Key Highlights
Inspiring Keynote Sessions
The conference featured impactful addresses from renowned global leaders including:
- Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala
- Prof. PLO Lumumba
- Evans Ogada
Speakers emphasized the importance of visionary leadership, intra-African trade, institutional growth, discipline, dignity, and sustainable impact across the continent.
Conference Discussions
Panel sessions and fireside chats focused on:
- Leadership & Governance
- Innovation & Enterprise Development
- Sustainable Development
- Nutrition & Healthcare
- Cross-Border Collaboration
- Building Strong African Institutions
The event created a platform for meaningful conversations aimed at driving actionable growth and long-term transformation across Africa.
African Prestige 100 Honoris Awards
A major highlight of the conference was the African Prestige 100 Honoris Awards, recognizing exceptional individuals and organizations contributing to Africa’s growth through leadership, innovation, enterprise, and social impact.
Selected Honorees Included:
- Rano Air
- Macdan Group
- Lister Hospital
- Shuttlers
- Knight Frank
- Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala
- Prof. PLO Lumumba
The ceremony celebrated excellence and honored visionary leaders and institutions making measurable impact across Africa.
Networking & Collaboration
Beyond the conference sessions, delegates engaged in strategic networking, partnership discussions, and collaborative engagements expected to foster investments, innovation, and stronger pan-African partnerships.
The presence of international participants further reinforced the conference’s position as a global platform for African leadership dialogue and transformation.
A Movement for Africa’s Future
ELIAD and Aspire West Africa reaffirmed their commitment to building a pan-African ecosystem of transformational leaders dedicated to impact, innovation, and sustainable progress.
As the conference concluded, one message stood clear:
Africa’s future will be shaped by leaders who act boldly, collaborate widely, and build systems that endure.
Experience ELIAD 2026
The African Pillars of Development Awards (APDA 2014)
EVENT
The African Pillars of Development Awards 2014
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- 14 March, 2014
- Abuja & Lagos, Nigeria
- ELIAD + Aspire West Africa
- Aspire West Africa
sUMMARY
Event Overview
The African Pillars of Development Awards 2014 was a landmark celebration of African excellence and transformative leadership. Jointly organized by the Entrepreneurs + Leadership Initiative for African Development (ELIAD) and its media partner Aspire West Africa, the event honoured the men and women whose visionary achievements have strengthened Africa’s social and economic foundations.
Held on Friday, March 14, 2014, in Abuja and Lagos, Nigeria, the prestigious gathering brought together top business executives, policymakers, entrepreneurs, and innovators from across the continent. It served as a powerful platform for reflection, recognition, and renewed commitment to Africa’s development agenda.
Distinguished Honourees
The Awards were designed to acknowledge and celebrate exceptional Africans—the true “pillars” whose innovation, leadership, and integrity have advanced the continent’s progress despite daunting challenges.
The 2014 edition focused on strategic leadership, entrepreneurial innovation, and economic inclusion, emphasizing the role of quality governance and enterprise in driving sustainable growth across Africa.
Through this celebration, ELIAD and Aspire West Africa reaffirmed their shared vision: to foster partnerships for development, promote quality leadership, and inspire a new generation of change-makers shaping Africa’s destiny.
- Keynote presentations from eminent African development leaders.
- Award conferments celebrating excellence across multiple industries.
- Cultural showcases and high-level networking among Africa’s finest minds.
The event successfully blended prestige and purpose, celebrating the individuals and institutions whose achievements continue to shape Africa’s legacy of progress and resilience.
Key Highlights
Purpose and Significance
The African Pillars of Development Awards 2014
The Awards were designed to acknowledge and celebrate exceptional Africans—the true “pillars” whose innovation, leadership, and integrity have advanced the continent’s progress despite daunting challenges.
The 2014 edition focused on strategic leadership, entrepreneurial innovation, and economic inclusion, emphasizing the role of quality governance and enterprise in driving sustainable growth across Africa.
Through this celebration, ELIAD and Aspire West Africa reaffirmed their shared vision: to foster partnerships for development, promote quality leadership, and inspire a new generation of change-makers shaping Africa’s destiny.
ABOUT US
About ELIAD and Aspire West Africa
The Entrepreneurs + Leadership Initiative for African Development (ELIAD) is a continental platform dedicated to promoting visionary leadership, enterprise, and socio-economic advancement across Africa.
Its media partner, Aspire West Africa—founded in 2010 under Intra-Costal Communications Ltd—serves as a voice for excellence, innovation, and development through conferences, publications, and international awards. Together, ELIAD and Aspire West Africa continue to spotlight Africa’s most impactful leaders and institutions, building narratives of hope, growth, and transformation.
The 3rd Annual West African Nobles and Entrepreneurs/Convergence Conference
EVENT
The 3rd Annual West African Nobles and Entrepreneurs /Convergence Conference 2012
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- 18 July, 2012
- Holiday Inn Hotel, Accra, Ghana
- Aspire West Africa and WANTEF
- Aspire West Africa
sUMMARY
Event Overview
The 3rd Annual West African Nobles and Entrepreneurs / Convergence West Africa Conference was a remarkable sub-regional event that celebrated innovation, excellence, and visionary leadership across West Africa.
Organized by Aspire West Africa, a leading sub-regional magazine, in collaboration with the West African Nobles and Top Entrepreneurs Forum (WANTEF)—a network of distinguished business leaders—the event brought together eminent personalities from government, business, academia, and civil society to discuss sustainable development and enterprise growth in the sub-region.
Held on Wednesday, July 18, 2012, at the Holiday Inn Hotel, Accra, Ghana, the epoch-making conference was convened under the theme:
“The Role of Noble Leaders in Building a Formidable Enterprise in West Africa,”
with a special focus on Enhancing Business Integration and Economic Empowerment within the Sub-region.
Leadership and Dignitaries
The distinguished Chairman of the occasion was Dr. Theresa Oppong-Beeko, Group Managing Director/CEO of The Manet Group, Accra, Ghana—one of Ghana’s foremost business icons.
Their presence underscored the event’s regional importance and commitment to advancing continental unity through enterprise and leadership excellence.
The conference featured addresses from leading West African economists and business strategists.
Their sessions inspired discussions on entrepreneurship, monetary integration, and the strategic role of leadership in shaping Africa’s future economic growth.
Distinguished Speakers
More Insights
The West Africa Awards for Nobles and Excellent Entrepreneurship
A major highlight of the conference was the Conferment of the West Africa Awards for Outstanding Entrepreneurship, which honoured noble leaders, professionals, technocrats, business tycoons, academics, and women achievers who demonstrated exceptional leadership, innovation, and service excellence in their respective fields.
Among the award categories was the recognition for Excellence and Innovative Quantity Surveying Services in West Africa, celebrating remarkable contributions to the advancement of infrastructure and construction management across the region.
Award Recipients
Some awardees are: Chief (Amb) Segun Olusola, mni, Founder, African Refugees Foundation, Nigeria; Dr. Joyce Aryee,DG, Ghana Chamber of Mines, Ghana; Alh. Yaya Almad,DG, Yal Group of Companies, South Africa; Dr. Theresa Oppong Beeko, GMD, The Manet Group, Accra, Ghana; Dr. Bamidele Makanjuola, MD, Vitafoam Nigeria Plc; and Dr. Fidelis Ayebae, GMD, Fidson Healthcare Plc.
Others include: Dr. Bolanle Omotosho, Country MD, Data Recovery Specialists of West Africa; Mrs. Adedoyin Odunfa, MD, Digital Jewels Ltd; Chief (Mrs.) Kehinde Kamson, MD, Sweet Sensation Confectionery Ltd; Mrs. AJoke Ogunsan, MD, Executive Trainers Ltd; Dr. Kweku Bramfon, KBL Enterprises; Barr. Ada Akpunonu, MD; Chifret International Agency Ltd; Mr. Debola Omooba and Mrs. Joy Omooba of Interior Specifics Ltd, among many others.
The West Africa Awards remain one of the most prestigious honours in the sub-region, annually recognizing individuals and institutions whose performance exemplifies nobility, enterprise, and commitment to Africa’s sustainable growth.
ABOUT US
About Aspire West Africa and WANTEF
Aspire West Africa, established in 2010 under Intra-Costal Communications Ltd, has remained a key platform for promoting leadership, entrepreneurship, and development journalism across Africa.
Its partner, the West African Nobles and Top Entrepreneurs Forum (WANTEF), is a network of accomplished entrepreneurs and business leaders championing noble conduct, enterprise innovation, and regional cooperation for prosperity.
Together, these organizations continue to advance the cause of African excellence, nurturing a culture of integrity, enterprise, and leadership across West Africa.
The 4th International Conference on African Economic Development
EVENT
The 4th International Conference on African Economic Development
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- 02 August, 2013
- African Royal Beach Hotel, Accra, Ghana
- Intra-Costal Communications Ltd
- Aspire West Africa
sUMMARY
Event Overview
The 4th International Conference on African Economic Development was an epoch-making international gathering organized by Aspire West Africa, with the consistent aim of fostering partnerships for development, promoting quality business integration, and advancing sustainable growth across Africa.
Held at the prestigious African Royal Beach Hotel in Accra, Ghana, the conference brought together prominent business leaders, policymakers, economists, and innovators from across the continent to deliberate on the theme “Meeting the Challenges of Quality Business and Economic Development in Ghana and Africa.”
The event provided a dynamic platform for participants to exchange ideas, share experiences, and forge partnerships aimed at strengthening Africa’s economic and business environment.
Leadership and Dignitaries
The conference was chaired by Mrs. Nora Bannerman-Abbot, a distinguished Ghanaian business icon, African Ambassador, and Chief Executive of Sleek Garments Exports Ghana Ltd.
The Special Guests of Honour included Hon. Seth Terkper, Ghana’s Minister for Finance, and Mr. Bhagwan Kubchandani, Chairman of Melcom Group of Companies, Accra, Ghana. Their presence added immense prestige and depth to the deliberations.
Renowned technocrats and African business leaders delivered insightful presentations during the sessions. Among the speakers were:
- Lucy Surhyel Newman, Managing Director/CEO, FITC, Lagos, Nigeria
- Roland Agbambire, CEO, RLG Communications, Ghana
- Joy Bob-Manuel, Director-General, Legal Aid Council, Nigeria
- Ellen Hagan, CEO, L’aine Services Ltd, Accra, Ghana
- Stephen Mintah, Chief Executive, SPEG, Ghana
Distinguished Speakers
More Insights
The African Quality Awards 2013
A major highlight of the event was the presentation of the African Quality Awards 2013, which honoured outstanding individuals and organizations that demonstrated resilience, excellence, and innovation despite prevailing economic challenges.
The award recognized premium-quality business leaders, astute professionals, technocrats, and captains of industry who had exhibited uncommon tenacity and exceptional commitment to service delivery and product quality within Ghana and across the continent.
These honourees symbolized the enduring spirit of African enterprise—driven by vision, character, and a passion for excellence.
Award Recipients
Some past recipients of our awards are: Dr. (Mrs.) Lucy Surhyel Newman, MD/CEO of FITC; Mr. Bahgwan Kubchandani, Chairman of Melcom Group of Companies, Accra; Late Chief (Amb.) Segun Olusola, mni, Founder, African Refugees Foundation, Nigeria; Dr. Joyce Aryee, DG, Ghana Chamber of Mines, Ghana; Dr. Theresa Oppong Beeko, GMD, The Manet Group, Accra, Ghana; Dr. Bamidele Makanjuola, MD, Vitafoam Nigeria Plc; Dr. Fidelis Ayebae, GMD, Fidson Healthcare Plc; Mr. Eugene Itua, MD/CEO, Multiple Development Services Ltd & World Health Representative on Environment and Health Safety in Nigeria; Barr. David Ofosu-Dorte, CE, AB & David Law, Accra; Engr. Adewale Osamiluyi, MD, Sato Engineering Nigeria Ltd. Others include: Mrs. Nora Bannerman-Abbott, MD/CEO, Sleek Garments Export Co, Ghana; Mr. Stephen Mintah, CEO, Sea-
Freight Pinneaples Exporters of Ghana; Mr. Daniel Okpara, MD, Quality Marine Services Ltd; Mr. Henry Agbamu, Chairman of Scoa Group Plc; Mrs. Lucia Quarchey, President, Ghana Association of Women Entrepreneurs; Dr. Bolanle Omotosho, Country MD, Data Recovery Specialists of West Africa; Mrs. Adedoyin Odunfa, MD, Digital Jewels Ltd; Chief (Mrs.) Kehinde Kamson, MD, Sweet Sensation Confectionery Ltd; Mrs. AJoke Ogunsan, MD, Executive Trainers Ltd; Barr. Ada Akpunonu, MD; Chifret International Agency Ltd; Mrs. Joy Omooba of Interior Specifics Ltd, among many others.
ABOUT US
About Aspire West Africa
Aspire West Africa, a subsidiary of Intra-Costal Communications Ltd, was founded in 2010 as a Pan-African initiative to promote leadership, enterprise, and innovation. Through its conferences, awards, and publications, Aspire West Africa has continued to showcase the achievements of African leaders, entrepreneurs, and institutions that are shaping the continent’s economic future and inspiring new generations of achievers.
International Conference on Business Quality, Leadership & Economic Development
EVENT
International Conference on Business Quality, Leadership & Economic Development
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- 11 June, 2016
- African Royal Beach Hotel, Accra, Ghana
- Leadership Initiative for African Development
- Aspire West Africa
sUMMARY
Event Overview
The International Conference on Business Quality, Leadership & Economic Development was a landmark event organized by the Entrepreneurs + Leadership Initiative for African Development (ELIAD) in partnership with Aspire West Africa, a premier media platform dedicated to celebrating excellence across the continent. Held on Saturday, June 11, 2016, at the African Royal Beach Hotel, Accra, Ghana, the conference marked the 10th edition of this annual international gathering. It provided a strategic forum for leaders, entrepreneurs, and policymakers to discuss Africa’s economic transformation under the theme:
“Africa’s Developmental Goals: The Role of Quality Leadership and Innovations.”
The conference, endorsed by local and international organizations, sought to foster partnerships for development, promote quality in business leadership, and strengthen regional integration within the African business ecosystem.
Leadership and Dignitaries
The distinguished Chairman of the event was Mr. Bhagwan Kubchandani, the visionary Chairman of Melcom International Group of Companies, whose leadership legacy continues to inspire enterprise excellence in Ghana and beyond.
The Special Guests of Honour included:
- Mr. Kofi Wampah, Governor, Bank of Ghana
- Mr. Henry Agbamu, Chairman, Scoa Group Plc
- Captain Ibrahim Mshelia, President, Mish Aviation & West African Airline
Their presence added prestige and depth to the deliberations on leadership, innovation, and economic transformation.
The conference featured insightful presentations from veteran African ambassadors and economic experts, including:
- President, Ghana Technology University College (GTUC)
- Deputy Executive Director, Ghana Standards Board
- Executive Director, Institute of Economic Affairs (IEA), Ghana
Their thought-provoking sessions focused on innovation, institutional leadership, and strategies for achieving Africa’s developmental goals through quality governance and entrepreneurial collaboration.
Distinguished Speakers
More Insights
The International Business Star Quality Awards
A major highlight of the event was the conferment of the International Business Star Quality Awards (IBSQA 2016), which recognized and celebrated exceptional leaders, entrepreneurs, technocrats, and captains of industry who had demonstrated resilience, innovation, and commitment to excellence in their fields despite economic challenges.
The Insurance Services Category was especially notable, with the Most Valuable Brand for the Year 2015 award presented to an outstanding organization that had exemplified excellence in service quality, customer confidence, and brand integrity.
The IBSQA has long been regarded as one of the highest honours a distinguished achiever can aspire to, serving as a historical benchmark of excellence and a symbol of the enduring contributions of men and women who have transformed their societies through quality leadership and enterprise.
Award Recipients
Some recipients of our awards are: Dr. Fidelis Ayebae, GMD, Fidson Healthcare Plc; Mr. Eugene Itua, MD/CEO, Multiple Development Services Ltd & World Health Organization Representative on Environment and Health Safety in Nigeria; Late Chief (Amb.) Segun Olusola, MNI, Founder, African Refugees Foundation, Nigeria; Dr. Joyce Aryee, former DG, Ghana Chamber of Mines; Barr. David Ofosu-Dorte, CE, AB & David Law, Accra; Engr. Adewale Osamiluyi, MD, Sato Engineering Nigeria Ltd, Ogun State, Nigeria; Dr. (Mrs.) Lucy Surhyel Newman, MD/CEO of FITC; Mr. Bahgwan Kubchandani, Chairman of Melcom
Group of Companies, Accra; , Ghana; Dr. Theresa Oppong Beeko, GMD, The Manet Group, Accra, Ghana; Dr. Bamidele Makanjuola, MD, Vitafoam Nigeria Plc. Others include: Mrs. Lucia Quarchey, President, Ghana Association of Women Entrepreneurs; Dr. Bolanle Omotosho, Regional MD, Data Recovery Specialists of West Africa; Mrs. Adedoyin Odunfa, MD, Digital Jewels Ltd; Chief (Mrs.) Kehinde Kamson, MD, Sweet Sensation Confectionery Ltd; Mrs. AJoke Ogunsan, MD, Executive Trainers Ltd; Mrs. Nora Bannerman-Abbott, MD/CEO, Sleek Garments Export Co, Ghana; Mr. Stephen Mintah, CEO, Sea-Freight Pinneaples Exporters of Ghana; Mr. Daniel Okpara, MD, Quality Marine Services Ltd; Mr. Henry Agbamu, Chairman of Scoa Group Plc; Barr. Ada Akpunonu, MD; Chifret International Agency Ltd; Mrs. Joy Omooba of Interior Specifics Ltd, among many others
ABOUT US
About ELIAD and Aspire West Africa
The Entrepreneurs + Leadership Initiative for African Development (ELIAD) is a continental platform dedicated to promoting visionary leadership, enterprise, and socio-economic advancement across Africa.
Its media partner, Aspire West Africa—founded in 2010 under Intra-Costal Communications Ltd—serves as a voice for excellence, innovation, and development through conferences, publications, and international awards. Together, ELIAD and Aspire West Africa continue to spotlight Africa’s most impactful leaders and institutions, building narratives of hope, growth, and transformation.