President Paul Kagame is set to receive an award "for presiding over a nation selected as one of the best countries to do business globally.” 

The award by EbonyLife TV will be given at the launch of EbonyLife TV, Africa’s first global black entertainment channel on June 30, in Lagos, Nigeria, according to a statement. 

"A major highlight of the launch will be the celebration of important personalities who have and continue to have significant influence on the media, entertainment, business, political and economic landscapes of the African continent,” reads part of the statement announcing the event. 

"The awards, coming after months of intense research and a thorough verification exercise by Forbes, are being awarded by EbonyLife TV and will be presented by none other than Steve Forbes of Forbes Media,” it added.

Making its mark

The world renowned establishment has become an insignia of distinction across the world for recognising worthy business decision-makers, investors and progressive individuals for making real impact around the world by stimulating business growth, spearheading innovation, creating employment and influencing great change in the economy of the world, or of their nation. 

Other award recipients include Nigerian leader Goodluck Jonathan, for his administration’s support to the Nigerian media and entertainment industry, President John Dramani Mahama of Ghana, for presiding over a country being selected as one of the best to do business globally, and President Jacob Zuma of South Africa, for heading the first African country to host the Fifa soccer World Cup. 

Others are Tope Shonubi, Tonye Cole and Ade Odunsi: founders of Sahara Energy Resources Limited for their contribution to the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry; and Uzoamaka Maduka, for being celebrated as a young African Achiever. 

EbonyLife TV is the first Global Black Entertainment Network in Africa. 

The channel aspires to be the preferred global network for premium African entertainment, by creating original, premium and inspiring content with an African soul that showcases the best of Africa for a global audience.  

According to the statement, entertainment, business, innovation, politics and the economy in Africa have been earmarked for honour and celebration at the event.

Analysts and industry watchers have described the event as potentially one of the biggest and most prestigious on the continent this year.