President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr. was yesterday honored with the esteemed Grand Prix Award at the 17th edition of the MEDays Forum in Tangier, Morocco, in recognition of his visionary leadership, commitment to democratic governance, and advocacy for Africa’s advancement in global affairs. Presented under the auspices of the Amadeus Institute, the Grand Prix Award is one of the Forum’s highest distinctions, celebrating individuals whose contributions significantly shape political stability, sustainable development, and cooperation within the Global South.
During the ceremony at the Palais des Arts et de la Culture, organizers commended President Boakai for championing regional collaboration, democratic principles, and Africa’s rightful role in global decision-making. In his acceptance remarks, President Boakai expressed gratitude to the Amadeus Institute and the Kingdom of Morocco, emphasizing that the honor reflects not only personal recognition but the resilience and aspirations of the Liberian people and the African continent. “This award highlights the importance of Africa’s voice in reimagining the global order,” he said. “Liberia stands ready to work with partners in shaping a future that is fair, peaceful, and inclusive.”
Delivering a keynote address at the Forum, often referred to as the “Davos of the Global South,” President Boakai called on African nations to move beyond spectator roles and become architects of a fairer, more inclusive world order. Speaking under the patronage of His Majesty King Mohammed VI of Morocco, he warned that Africa risks being sidelined in decisions affecting its destiny. “Our natural wealth enriches others more than our own people,” he noted, urging African states to strengthen their collective voice in global institutions, address security threats, and invest in value-added industries to create opportunities for youth. President Boakai also advocated for accelerated regional integration through the African Continental Free Trade Area and the development of continental infrastructure.
He appealed to investors to adopt a shared prosperity approach, supporting industries that process minerals, develop agriculture, and build local expertise while upholding environmental and governance standards. Quoting an African proverb, “Until the lion learns to speak, every story will glorify the hunter,” he declared, “Africa is now learning to speak and shaping its own narrative. Africa is not silent. Africa is speaking. Africa is not waiting. Africa is moving. Africa is not behind. Africa is rising.” This year’s MEDays Forum, themed “Fractures and Polarization: Re-inventing the Global Equation,” provided a platform for President Boakai to advocate for African unity, leadership, and bold action to ensure the continent’s prosperity and influence on the global stage.
