President Mahama becomes first African leader to receive World Affairs Council’s top honour

President John Dramani Mahama has been conferred with the International Statesperson Award by the World Affairs Council of Philadelphia, becoming the first African leader to receive the prestigious recognition.

The award, established in 1973, is the council’s highest honour and celebrates distinguished international figures whose contributions advance peace, freedom and enduring impact on global affairs.

In the statement posted on Jubilee House's Facebook page, President Mahama attributed his dedication to global peace and development to the enduring legacy of Africa’s great leaders, including Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, Nelson Mandela and Kenneth Kaunda.

The World Affairs Council of Philadelphia, founded in 1949, is one of the United States’ oldest international affairs organisations, dedicated to fostering civic dialogue on global issues. Past recipients of the International Statesperson Award include heads of state and government from across the world, recognised for their leadership on the international stage.

President Mahama’s recognition places him among a select group of global leaders honoured for their contributions to diplomacy, governance and international cooperation.