Malaika Uwamahoro delivered a powerful opening performance at Africa CEO Forum 2026 on Wednesday, setting the tone for one of the continent’s biggest gatherings of business leaders, policymakers, and investors.
Inside a packed hall in Kigali, where more than 2,000 CEOs, heads of state, and decision-makers gathered, she reminded the audience that Africa’s future must be written by Africans themselves. Her words resonated across the room and quickly became one of the defining moments of the summit’s opening day.
The acclaimed performer has taken her spoken word message to major global stages, including the United Nations in New York and African Union summits in Addis Ababa and Kigali. However, her appearance at this year’s forum carried deeper meaning. It reflected the growing role of African creatives in shaping the continent’s identity, influence, and economic narrative.
For more than a decade, Malaika has challenged outdated perceptions of Rwanda and Africa. Through theatre, film, and spoken word, she has consistently argued that African voices need no foreign interpreter. She has also championed a new generation of storytellers determined to define the continent on their own terms.
That message aligned perfectly with the vision of Africa CEO Forum 2026. This year’s Kigali edition focuses on ownership, industrial growth, continental integration, and African-led development. As leaders debate investments, infrastructure, and trade, her words served as a reminder that culture remains one of Africa’s strongest assets.
Moreover, she brought art directly into a room where capital decisions are made. Her performance bridged business and identity, showing that Africa exports not only resources, but also creativity, innovation, and imagination.
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The Kigali summit runs from May 14 to May 15, with major conversations expected around private sector expansion, regional trade, and new investment opportunities across the continent. Yet, before the policy debates began, Malaika ensured the spotlight stayed on Africa’s voice.
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