Iconic International Holdings, Pty Limited has convened policymakers, civil society actors, private sector stakeholders and youth representatives at the 2026 Iconic Africa Summit and Honours hosted in Harare, Zimbabwe, in a gathering aimed at advancing dialogue on the continent’s development priorities.
The five-day summit, held February 11–15 at the Rainbow Towers and Convention Centre, drew more than 30 speakers and over 1,000 delegates representing 54 countries, according to organisers, who noted that discussions centred on sustainable development, youth inclusion, regional integration and leadership accountability.
A strategic partnership led by Apphia Musavengana of Concord for Young Women in Business Global broadened participation among women entrepreneurs and youth organisations, reinforcing the summit’s emphasis on inclusive growth.
President and Founder of the hosting firm, Temisan O. Louis, said collaboration with continental institutions such as the African Union Youth Council and the International Forum for Peace and Diplomacy was designed to deepen engagement on governance, policy reform and development strategy.
Organised under the theme The Africa We Want: Sustainable Development, Everyone’s Responsibility, the forum also featured the unveiling of the ICONIC 500 list, honouring individuals and institutions for contributions spanning governance, humanitarian service, youth development and cultural preservation.
Among award recipients was Auxillia Mnangagwa, named Iconic Woman of the Year for her humanitarian and social welfare initiatives, while Prince Lindani of the Kingdom of Eswatini was recognised for efforts in youth empowerment and cultural diplomacy.
Former Malawian leader Arthur Peter Mutharika received an honour for leadership and commitment to democratic governance, with the award accepted on his behalf by Ben Malunga Phiri of Malawi.
Zimbabwe’s former Youth Minister Tino Machakaire was acknowledged for promoting youth-driven innovation and national development, while the Babukisi Foundation earned recognition for preserving African heritage through digital platforms.
The event also attracted senior officials including Vice President Kembo Mohadi, underscoring rising regional interest in platforms that foster cross-sector collaboration on Africa’s socio-economic challenges.
Participants said outcomes from the deliberations are expected to inform policy engagement, strengthen partnerships and shape youth-focused programmes across the Southern African Development Community and beyond.
