The British Council in Ghana was the stage for a remarkable gathering of African excellence as representatives from all 53 African countries converged for the prestigious Pan-Africanism Awards.
The event brought together government officials, youth champions, ambassadors, and business leaders in a celebration of leadership, unity, and youth empowerment across the continent.
Among the standout honorees was Kenya’s own Ruth Mueni Mukhwana HSC, who was nominated for the Pan-African Youth Leadership Award and recognized as one of the 100 Most Influential Young Africans.
A seasoned public communication and advocacy practitioner, Ruth boasts over seven years of experience in brand building, corporate communications, and development work, spanning partnerships with government agencies, private corporations, and NGOs.
Currently serving at the Ministry of Cooperatives and MSMEs in Kenya, Ruth has played a pivotal role in enhancing communication strategies to support the cooperative movement and MSME growth. Her excellence in public service earned her an appointment as Head of Protocol & Events to the Cabinet Secretary.
Ruth expressed deep gratitude for the recognition, noting the award’s significance in elevating her brand and placing Kenya firmly on the continental map. The brand, driven by a passion for youth empowerment, supports young people across Kenya’s 47 counties. Committed to tackling unemployment and uplifting communities, the brand envisions a future where youth are financially and emotionally stable.“This award is very important because it puts me on the map across the continent. The desire for youth empowerment drives me daily. It saddens me to see young people struggle—I dream of a future where every youth is financially, ethically, and emotionally stable.”
It also shows that somebody is watching what I’m doing in the space of leadership as a young 6Ruth, the founder of the Hopes, Dreams & Dignity Foundation, is a passionate youth empowerment advocate.
Through this initiative, she champions education, social justice, and menstrual hygiene programs for girls across Africa. She also serves as the East Africa Regional Coordinator for the AfCFTA Young Entrepreneurs initiative, further cementing her leadership in driving youth-focused economic development.
Her outstanding contributions have been widely recognized. She is a recipient of the 40 Under 40 Africa Award, was named among the 50 Most Influential Women in Kenya (Youth Category), and received the Head of State Commendation (HSC) from former President Uhuru Kenyatta for her exemplary service to the nation.
Speaking passionately about the event, Ruth highlighted the power of pan-African networking: “To be in a room with representatives from 53 countries was a blessing. It shows the strength of youth leadership across Africa. My dream is to see Kenya host such an event in the future and to establish a Pan-Africanism Academy right here at home.”
She also called on the Kenyan leadership to continue supporting youth initiatives, expressing a desire to one day sit with the President to discuss youth-centered solutions and opportunities.
Although notable Kenyan youth leader Charlene Ruto was also recognized, she could not attend the event. Ruth shared that six Kenyans were present, marking the country as having the highest representation at the awards.
The chief guest at the event was Hon. Emeke, a youthful minister from Ghana, who commended the honorees for their commitment to shaping the future of Africa. Kenyan delegates were warmly received by the Deputy High Commissioner and were scheduled to meet with Ghanaian minister of youth for further collaboration and partnership.
