A Landmark Moment: Mrs. Masiyiwa at Amref International University and Her Appointment as Chancellor

This year marked a historic milestone for both Higherlife Foundation and the wider region as Mrs. Tsitsi Masiyiwa delivered a keynote address at the Ambidef gathering and was installed as Chancellor of a leading African institution. This appointment recognises her decades of service in philanthropy, education, health, and social innovation across the continent—work that has consistently centred on dignity, opportunity, and community transformation.

Her address at Ambidef spotlighted the importance of visionary leadership that builds strong institutions, strengthens communities, and unlocks Africa’s full human capital potential. She emphasised that leadership rooted in integrity and long-term thinking is essential for addressing the continent’s most pressing challenges. Her message highlighted how collaboration, innovation, and values-based leadership serve as essential catalysts for sustainable development, especially in a world where crises increasingly require coordinated and ethical responses.

Mrs. Masiyiwa also underscored the growing role of African institutions in shaping global standards for education and public health. She called for universities and learning centres to become hubs of creativity, research, and entrepreneurship—places where young Africans can design solutions tailored to their own environments rather than relying solely on external models. By encouraging leaders to invest in institutional excellence, she reaffirmed the need for structures that endure beyond individuals and continue empowering communities for generations.

For local communities, her Chancellorship is more than a title; it is a reflection of the thousands of students, teachers, health workers, and young leaders whose lives have been transformed through HLF’s programmes. It signals continuity, credibility, and a deeper commitment to building Africa’s next generation of global leaders. Her new role further strengthens the bridge between grassroots development work and higher education leadership, ensuring that the realities of communities inform academic priorities and institutional strategies.

The appointment also inspires confidence among parents, educators, and young people who see in Mrs. Masiyiwa a leader who understands both the challenges and possibilities within African societies. Her leadership reinforces the idea that African institutions can produce world-class thinkers, innovators, and changemakers who contribute meaningfully to their communities and the world.

Globally, this milestone positions Africa at the forefront of conversations about education, human capital development, and institutional excellence. It showcases the continent’s growing influence in shaping future-ready learning systems and demonstrates that African leaders are increasingly charting the course for transformative social impact. Mrs. Masiyiwa’s role amplifies Africa’s voice on the global stage and strengthens partnerships that support inclusive, quality education across the world.

Leadership is not just about the position we hold.It is about the future we build.