Nigerian megastar Burna Boy, Kenya President William Ruto, and captain of South Africa’s Rugby team Siya Kolisi headline a group of Africans recognised by Time magazine of being among the world’s most influential people.
Afrobeats singer, Burna Boy was featured in the Icons category, celebrating individuals who have established a legacy in their fields.
Kolisi was recognised for his leadership through “wisdom and humility”. South African comedian Trevor Noah said that Kolisi gave “hope during a time in which many South Africans find it hard to hold on to any” by leading the country to a remarkable rugby World Cup win last year.
President Ruto was named for championing Africa’s climate action while Ugandan LGBTQ+ advocate Frank Mugisha was included for challenging his country’s anti-gay law, which came into effect last year.
Julienne Lusenge, a human rights activist from the Democratic Republic of Congo, was acknowledged for her work in addressing sexual and gender-based violence and pushing for increased women’s political participation in her country.
Kennedy Odede, a Kenyan social entrepreneur who has been tackling societal issues such as poverty and education in Kibera, Kenya’s largest slum was also honoured.