A theorist and strategist of the anti-colonial struggle, Amílcar Cabral led the independence movement of Guinea-Bissau and Cape Verde. He advocated for an approach based on education and consciousness-raising rather than unnecessary violence. His assassination in 1973 did not prevent Guinea-Bissau from gaining independence shortly after his death.

Former president of Mali (1992-2002), Alpha Oumar Konaré made history by consolidating democracy and advocating for peace in West Africa. He later chaired the African Union Commission (2003-2008), playing a major role in conflict mediation across the continent. His commitment to African integration and good governance solidified his role as a key figure in African diplomacy.

Amina J. Mohammed is the Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations, serving as an advocate for sustainable development and women’s rights. She has been instrumental in advancing the UN’s 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. A former Minister of Environment in Nigeria, she has played a key role in advocating for climate change action and social justice on a global scale.

A gynecologist and women’s rights activist, Denis Mukwege treats victims of sexual violence in the Democratic Republic of Congo. His fight against the use of rape as a weapon of war earned him the Nobel Peace Prize in 2018. His work has raised global awareness about the need to protect women in conflict zones.

Archbishop and human rights activist, Desmond Tutu played a pivotal role in the fight against apartheid in South Africa. As chairman of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, he advocated for restorative justice and forgiveness after the end of the segregationist regime. A Nobel Peace Prize laureate in 1984, he remained a champion of the oppressed until his death in 2021.

Africa’s first elected female president, Ellen Johnson Sirleaf led Liberia from 2006 to 2018, after years of civil war. Nobel Peace Prize laureate in 2011, she worked toward national reconciliation, rebuilding the country, and promoting women’s rights. Her leadership helped stabilize Liberia and attract international investments for development.

President of Nigeria from 2010 to 2015, Goodluck Jonathan made history by peacefully accepting election results and handing over power to his successor. His actions helped prevent a political crisis and strengthened democracy in the country. Since leaving office, he has been involved in mediating conflicts across Africa.

A women’s rights and education activist, Graça Machel dedicated her life to improving the conditions of children and women in Africa. She was the First Lady of Mozambique before becoming the wife of Nelson Mandela. Machel is also a key figure in promoting children’s rights globally and played a major role in the establishment of UNICEF.

A writer and environmental activist, Ken Saro-Wiwa denounced the pollution caused by oil extraction in the Niger Delta. A pacifist, he defended the rights of indigenous people against multinational corporations. His execution in 1995 by the Nigerian military regime sparked global outrage and strengthened the fight for environmental justice in Africa.

As UN Secretary-General from 1997 to 2006, Kofi Annan worked tirelessly for global diplomacy and human rights. In 2001, he was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his efforts to strengthen international cooperation. He played a crucial role in resolving conflicts in Africa and promoting the Millennium Development Goals.

Leader of Ghana’s independence in 1957, Kwame Nkrumah was a strong advocate for Pan-Africanism and African unity. As Ghana’s first president, he worked toward the decolonization of the continent and the creation of Pan-African institutions. His efforts contributed to the establishment of the Organization of African Unity (OAU), now the African Union.

A writer and feminist activist, Mariama Bâ used literature to expose social injustices and gender inequalities. Her novel So Long a Letter is a landmark work of African feminism, advocating for women’s empowerment through education and awareness. Her work has contributed to advancing discussions on women’s rights and social peace in Africa.

A distinguished diplomat, Mohamed Ibn Chambas has made significant contributions to peace efforts in Africa, particularly in the West African region. Serving as the United Nations Special Representative for West Africa, he played a vital role in peacekeeping, conflict resolution, and promoting democracy. His work in various international diplomatic positions continues to have a lasting impact on the continent’s peace and stability.

A symbol of the fight against apartheid, Nelson Mandela spent 27 years in prison before becoming South Africa’s first Black president in 1994. His commitment to national reconciliation helped prevent a civil war and laid the foundation for a multiracial democracy. Awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1993, he advocated for tolerance and forgiveness, becoming a universal icon of peace and justice.

As the first prime minister of independent Congo in 1960, Patrice Lumumba became a symbol of African resistance to colonialism and imperialism. His leadership was tragically cut short when he was assassinated later that year. Despite his brief tenure, Lumumba’s vision for a free, united, and self-sufficient Africa continues to inspire African liberation movements.

Revolutionary and president of Burkina Faso (1983-1987), Thomas Sankara championed economic self-sufficiency, gender equality, and the fight against corruption. Known as the "African Che Guevara," he initiated radical reforms to improve education, healthcare, and the environment. His dedication to anti-imperialism and his vision of a free and united Africa earned him posthumous recognition.

The first African woman to receive the Nobel Peace Prize in 2004, Wangari Maathai founded the Green Belt Movement, which led to the planting of millions of trees to combat deforestation and environmental degradation in Africa. A women's rights and peace activist, she also worked to promote democracy and human rights in Kenya and beyond. Her legacy remains a model for environmental and social activism.