Namibian entrepreneur, economic diplomacy expert and youth leader Ndahafa Hapulile was awarded at the Iconic Africa Summit and Honours 2026 in Harare, Zimbabwe, over the weekend.
Hapulile was named African Youth Ambassador and won the Patrice Lumumba Leadership Excellence and Integrity award during the summit.
The summit was hosted under the theme ‘The Africa We Want, Sustainable Development, Everyone’s Responsibility’.
Hapulile says the award is both humbling and a reminder of greater responsibility.
She says it signals growing confidence in young African leaders.
“It shows that our continent is ready to entrust its future to a generation anchored in values, vision and unity,” she says.
On receiving the Patrice Lumumba award, Hapulile reflects on the historical weight of the name.
“The legacy of Patrice Lumumba is one of courage, conviction and unwavering belief in Africa’s sovereignty. To be associated with such a name is profoundly meaningful,” she says.
She believes the award recognises consistency in ethical leadership.
“I have chosen righteousness even when it was not convenient. Leadership with integrity means alignment between faith, values and action. It means being accountable even when no one is watching,” she says.
Mayor of Africa and president of the Iconic International Group, Temisan Louis, congratulated Hapulile and other honourees at the summit.
“Your presence and participation are vital to realising our collective vision. Let us work together to build a prosperous, sustainable and equitable Africa for generations to come,” he said.
Beyond the awards, Hapulile runs a diversified business portfolio. She is the chief executive of Sama Investment and Consultancy, which provides advisory services in mining, information and communication technology, hospitality and enterprise development, while managing property and tourism investments.
She has also founded Dalarize Guesthouse and leads the Dalarize Development Project, which focuses on student accommodation and social innovation.
Through I Am The Key Children Media she promotes educational content for young Africans.
“I have realised leadership is not about prominence; it is about impact. I want to be the help I once needed,” she says.
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