Africa’s foremost industrialist and president of Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote, will receive the Expo Africa Brazil Leadership Award 2026 at the forthcoming Expo Africa Brazil in December.
The award, approved unanimously by the Expo’s International Honours Committee, was described by the organisers as the highest international distinction conferred by the Expo and was unanimously approved by the event’s International Honours Committee.
A statement signed by João Canda, President of Expo Africa Brazil, described the resolution as “one of the most significant institutional resolutions adopted since the creation of the platform.
“This recognition celebrates not only extraordinary business achievement but also a lifetime commitment to industrialising Africa, creating jobs, and positioning the continent as a central player in global trade.
“Mr Dangote embodies the vision we seek to advance: bold leadership, cross-continental partnership, and transformative impact.”
The three‑day summit is expected to host over 1,000 delegates, including government officials, private sector leaders, and multilateral institutions from more than 25 African countries, alongside senior representatives from the Brazilian government, Latin American institutions, and international business groups.
Organisers have positioned the event as a critical platform for South‑South trade at a time when global markets are shifting toward emerging economies. The programme will feature policy dialogues, sector panels, and government‑to‑business engagements addressing investment, infrastructure, energy, agribusiness, technology, and financing.
The statement added that Dangote’s selection underscores the growing importance of African industrial capacity in global supply chains. As founder of one of Africa’s largest conglomerates with operations spanning cement, agriculture, and energy, Dangote has led some of the continent’s most ambitious industrial projects.
“Africa brings demographic growth and productive capacity. Brazil brings market access and industrial experience; leaders like Dangote show what is possible when that potential is matched with long‑term investment,” said Canda.
The summit aims to remove trade barriers, improve logistics between West Africa and South America, and create joint ventures in manufacturing, renewable energy, and food security.
Organisers state the event’s objective extends beyond facilitating deals to building institutional frameworks that sustain Africa‑Latin America cooperation beyond a single gathering.
Packaged by Lanre Olabisi
