Traditional leadership is increasingly being linked to community development, cultural preservation and opportunities for young people, following the gathering of African and diaspora royalty in Nairobi for the World Greatness Awards, where a new international collaboration platform took shape.
The three-day event, held from October 23 to 25, 2026, brought together royal figures and traditional leaders to explore how cultural heritage can translate into practical community service and stronger international relationships.
The programme opened at Safari Park Hotel before moving to African Heritage House, where guests experienced Maasai hospitality, African art and historic royal seats overlooking Nairobi National Park.
Among those attending were South Africa’s Kgosi Nyalala Molefe John Pilane of the Bakgatla-ba-Kgafela community and Ghana’s Nana Osompa Nyamekye II, chief of Gomoa Otapirow. Queen Pam Phan, Nana Abena Yeboah I, Nkosuohemaa of Gomoa Otapirow, Queen Wilhelminah Lwate and Princess Dr Caroline Lerole of Royal Global Queens also participated. King Bongani Tshepo III was honoured in his absence.
The Royal Diaspora Monarchy delegation included King Clyde Rivers, Duke Professor Patrick Businge, founder of the World Greatness Awards, Duchess Julian Businge, founder of the Royal Civility Institute, Dame Dr Maryleen Thome, Sir Dr David Spencer and Sir Professor Veney Cochran.
Cochran received a knighthood during the royal investiture programme, where he acknowledged the responsibility that comes with recognition and his commitment to the work ahead.
A major focus of the gathering was how traditional leadership can deliver tangible benefits to communities. Nana Nyamekye used his recognition to highlight development initiatives in Gomoa Otapirow, including a community centre, kindergarten block, palace renovation and recovery of township land.
His activities also include supporting prisoners and creating opportunities for young people through diplomacy and Model United Nations programmes.
“I thank the organizers of the World Greatness Awards for looking at a small town and seeing something worth honouring,” he said.
He added that leadership should be judged by service rather than status, noting that “A leader is measured by how he treats people who can give him nothing.”
Queen Pam Phan also expressed appreciation for her recognition, saying she was deeply humbled and proud to receive the award.
Other examples of community-focused leadership included Pilane’s advocacy for rural digital literacy and improved technology access. Tongan attendee Bishop Silouan Silala Vea highlighted the importance of honouring elders and preserving community histories.
These contributions underpin the establishment of World Greatness Royals, a platform within the World Greatness Awards family intended to connect royal leaders across countries through cultural understanding, collaboration and community service.
Duke Professor Businge said the initiative would provide a framework for turning international relationships into opportunities for young people, stronger communities and the preservation of cultural heritage.
“Royal heritage carries a responsibility to serve,” he said, explaining that the platform seeks to connect leaders across kingdoms and continents.
The announced leadership comprises King Clyde Rivers as First Chairman, Queen Pam Phan as First Vice Chairwoman and Princess Dr Caroline Lerole as First Global Advisor.
The initiative builds on the organisation’s history of recognising traditional leaders, including Queen Best Kemigisa Akiiki and King Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV of Uganda’s Tooro Kingdom, who feature among its Legends of Greatness.
For the organisers, the Nairobi gathering represents an opportunity to move royal recognition beyond ceremonial honours towards lasting partnerships focused on heritage, youth empowerment and community development.
For Nana Nyamekye, the award carries a personal commitment to the people he represents: “I will carry this award as a promise to them.”
