New Prize to Honor African Leadership

Mo Ibrahim, a native of Sudan who became a billionaire in the cellular telephone business, has established the Award for Achievement in African Leadership. The $5 million prize, which will be paid out over a period of 10 years, will be given to an African leader who has shown the greatest commitment to “democracy and good governance.” A leader will become eligible for the prize only after leaving office. The prize could be given out as early as next year.

Ibrahim also left open the possibility of subsequent prizes for additional leaders once the initial prize has been awarded. It is hoped that the prospect of winning the prize will act as an incentive so that African leaders will turn away from corruption while in office.

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