Over 120 top CEOs and entrepreneurs from 21 countries gathered in Lusaka, Zambia, for the landmark 10th edition of the HIVE Africa Summit.
The Radisson Blu Hotel in Lusaka was abuzz from June 25–29, 2025, as it hosted more than 120 influential CEOs, entrepreneurs, and changemakers from 21 countries across Africa and the diaspora for the 10th edition of the HIVE Africa Summit. The high-level gathering brought together thought leaders, innovators, and public servants to share insights, build partnerships, and explore transformative ideas aimed at propelling the continent forward.
The summit featured an impressive lineup of speakers, including Prof. Patrick Lumumba, Dr. Sylvia Cole, Dr. Teresa Bassey, Patrick Uduma, Genevieve Pearl, and Engr. Adokiye Tombomieye, former Group Managing Director, NNPC Upstream. These distinguished voices delivered powerful messages centered on innovation, leadership, and the future of Africa’s youth.
During the Opening Dinner and Award Night, Engr. Tombomieye emphasised the urgent need for Africa to “move forward” and underscored the dangers of inaction in shaping a promising future for the continent’s youth. He called on leaders to take bold steps that will ensure Africa’s progress is not postponed any further.
One of the most memorable moments of the night was the acceptance speech by Hall of Fame awardee, Prof. Patrick Lumumba. In his signature eloquence, he reminded participants of their role as agents of goodness and advocates of community values. He referenced the poem “Fear” by Khalil Gibran, using its river metaphor to express how the fear of losing one’s identity can lead to transformation and union with a greater cause.
“It is better to be 10% of an elephant than 100% of a spear,” he said, stressing the strength of unity and the value of belonging to something greater than oneself. His message—rooted in African philosophy and pan-African ideals—was a call to collective purpose and shared humanity.
Dr. Sylvia Cole, also a keynote speaker at the dinner, commended the organisers and applauded the awardees for their unwavering contributions to the continent. She expressed hope that the conversations and commitments made at the summit would translate into real, measurable change.
The night also witnessed the presentation of prestigious awards such as the Hall of Fame, Award for Excellence, and the HIVE Alumni Exceptional Leader Award. Among the standout awardees was Olaitan Gbenga, Chairman/CEO of Diadem Group, who was celebrated for his exceptional leadership and visionary entrepreneurship in sectors including cleaning, pest control, shipping and logistics, and payment outsourcing across Nigeria and sub-Saharan Africa. His award was presented by Prof. Patrick Lumumba.
Beyond the glamour of the opening night, the four-day summit delivered impactful panel discussions, practical workshops, and strategic networking sessions designed to foster collaboration and long-term partnerships across sectors and borders. The summit also created space for youth voices, innovation showcases, and heartfelt storytelling that captured the essence of pan-African solidarity.
The HIVE Africa Summit has undoubtedly solidified its position as a premier gathering for Africa’s business and entrepreneurial ecosystem. By amplifying voices of impact, recognizing excellence, and fostering cross-continental collaboration, it continues to be a beacon of hope and progress.
The Chairperson of the Planning Committee, Mrs. Nneka Jasper Ogbonna, encouraged Hive Leaders at the event to remain steadfast in their commitment to purpose-driven leadership, collaboration, and creating lasting impact across Africa and beyond.
The next edition of the HIVE Africa Summit is scheduled for June 24–28, 2026, in Accra, Ghana, and promises even greater opportunities for engagement, transformation, and impact.
