The Leaders Without Borders Development Centre (LWBDC) successfully commemorated its 10th Anniversary Annual Business Summit and International Honours in Windhoek, Namibia, bringing together an array of international delegates, policymakers, and business leaders under the theme “Eliminating Intra-African Trade Barriers: Strengthening Policy Reforms and Strategic Execution Models for Africa’s Economic Growth” and the sub-theme “Africa Beyond Borders: Building an Integrated Continental Economy.”
Held at the Hilton Windhoek Hotel, the summit served as a platform for dialogue on advancing sustainable economic cooperation and enhancing Africa’s internal trade frameworks. The three-day event reflected a growing commitment among African leaders and institutions to foster inclusive development, investment, and leadership rooted in regional collaboration rather than external dependency.
In his keynote address, His Excellency Dr. Nangolo Mbumba, the Fourth President of the Republic of Namibia, commended the Centre’s consistent efforts to cultivate cross-border partnerships and promote leadership excellence. Dr. Mbumba highlighted the importance of African-led solutions in addressing the continent’s developmental challenges, noting that meaningful economic transformation must be shaped by home-grown policy reforms and a shared continental vision.
The Summit convened a cross-section of influential voices from the public and private sectors across Africa, Europe, and the Middle East, including Angelique Peake, Sector Head for Oil & Gas Energy and Resources at Rand Merchant Bank (RMB); Paulina Mbala Elago, International Trade and Development Consultant and former SACU Executive Secretary; and Mr. Oluwatoyin Ahmed Edu, Executive Director of Risk and Business Development at Bank of Industry (BOI).
Speaking at the closing ceremony, Ambassador (Dr.) Hillary Emoh, Founder and Principal Partner of the Leaders Without Borders Development Centre, expressed gratitude to the Namibian government, sponsors, and partner organisations for their contributions to what he described as a “decade of bridge-building across continents.” Dr. Emoh reaffirmed the Centre’s commitment to nurturing transformative leadership and sustainable partnerships as Africa continues to navigate evolving global economic landscapes.
The International Honours Ceremony recognised individuals and organisations that have demonstrated exceptional leadership and innovation within their sectors. Among the honourees was Dr. Ester Kali, Chief Executive Officer of Letshego Bank Namibia, who received the Leaders Without Borders Global Honours – Africa’s Most Influential Banking Leader Award. Dr. Olasupo Olusi, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Bank of Industry (BOI), was also recognised for his contributions to African enterprise development. Letshego Bank Namibia was further acknowledged among the Top 50 Emerging Businesses in Africa, reflecting the institution’s growing role in expanding financial inclusion.
The event concluded with a Gala Dinner and Networking Soirée, providing delegates with a space to forge new partnerships and strengthen continental business relations. The atmosphere underscored a shared belief in Africa’s capacity to craft a self-determined economic future through collaboration, innovation, and policy integration.
As the Leaders Without Borders Development Centre celebrates a decade of impact, it remains steadfast in its mission to promote international dialogue, leadership excellence, and economic empowerment across the continent. The organisation continues to position itself as a platform that elevates African voices, reinforces intercontinental trade linkages, and encourages cross-sector partnerships that advance the continent’s long-term economic transformation.
For more information about the Leaders Without Borders Development Centre, visit the official website or follow updates via The Southern African Times.
