GUESTS PROFILES
Eng. Victor B. Mapani, Managing Director,
Zambia Electricity Supply Corporation Limited (ZESCO)
Engr. Victor B. Mapani is the Managing Director of ZESCO, Zambia’s top electricity supplier, with over 20 years of experience in the energy sector. A graduate in Electrical Engineering, he has held various technical and leadership roles in power generation, transmission, and distribution. Under his leadership, ZESCO has focused on expanding the national grid, boosting power generation, and integrating renewable energy. Engr. Mapani is dedicated to operational excellence, sustainability, and team development, positioning him as a key figure in Zambia’s efforts to achieve energy security and foster economic growth.
Mr. Daniel Asiedu
Managing Director OmniBSIC Bank Limited, Ghana
Daniel Asiedu is an experienced banker and Chartered Accountant with nearly 30 years of expertise in auditing, business consulting, banking, financial management, and investment. He holds multiple advanced degrees, including an Executive MBA in Finance, an MA in Economic Policy Management, and an MSc in Development Finance from the University of Ghana, along with a BSc in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Ibadan, Nigeria. He has attended executive courses at prestigious institutions such as Harvard Business School, Wharton, and Stanford.
As a former Managing Director of ADB and Zenith Bank Ghana, he led both banks to significant growth and profitability. Currently the Managing Director of OmniBSIC Bank, Daniel has successfully guided the bank to full capitalization and profitability, achieving a 316% increase in Profit Before Tax and a 104% rise in customer deposits by Q3 2023. He was honored with the 2023 Global Well-Respected CEO in Banking Award and recognized as the Personality of the Year at the Ghana CEO and Business Awards.
H.E Martin Gama Abucha
Honorable Minister, Ministry of Mining, South Sudan
Mr. Martin Gama Abucha, the Minister of Mining in South Sudan since 2021, brings over 15 years of expertise in consulting, business administration, engineering, IT, and project management. His leadership has revitalized South Sudan’s mining sector through mineral development initiatives and the restructuring of the Ministry of Mining for greater efficiency and accountability. He has established key government entities like the Mining Corporation and Geological Authority, while advocating for regulatory reforms to attract mining investment. Abucha is also overseeing South Sudan’s first comprehensive geological survey and has aligned the country with strategic continental mining institutions.
Ms. Reta Jo Lewis
President and Chairman of the Export-Import Bank of the United States (EXIM)
Ms. Reta Jo Lewis is the President and Chairman of the Export-Import Bank of the United States (EXIM), where she leads the efforts of the agency to support American businesses in exporting goods and services abroad. With decades of experience in international affairs, trade policy, and economic development, Lewis has held prominent roles in both the public and private sectors. Before she joined EXIM, she served as a diplomat and as Special Representative for Global Intergovernmental Affairs at the U.S. Department of State. Throughout her career, Lewis has championed economic diplomacy, trade promotion, and inclusive economic growth, working to create opportunities for U.S. businesses globally.
Van McCormick,
Founding Executive Director of the International Economic Alliance (IEA) at Harvard University
Van McCormick is the Founding Executive Director of the International Economic Alliance (IEA) at Harvard University, an influential platform that fosters dialogue and collaboration between global business leaders, policymakers, and academics. Under his leadership, IEA has organized high-profile events, including forums on international trade, investment, and economic diplomacy.
With a strong background in international relations and economic policy, with a career spanning government, academia, and the private sector. McCormick work focuses on bridging gaps between nations through economic partnerships, fostering cross-border cooperation, and promoting global economic growth. McCormick’s efforts have positioned him as a key player in international economic diplomacy and global policy development.
Hon. Dee Dawkins-Haigler,
Former Chair of the Georgia Legislative Black Caucus
Hon. Dee Dawkins-Haigler is a former Georgia State Representative and the former Chair of the Georgia Legislative Black Caucus, one of the largest Black caucuses in the U.S. state legislatures. A dedicated advocate for civil rights, social justice, and economic empowerment, Dawkins-Haigler has been a prominent voice in Georgia politics, focusing on issues like education, healthcare access, criminal justice reform, and voter rights.
She played a significant role in advancing legislation that aimed to uplift underserved communities and promote equality, in her time in the Georgia House of Representatives. Beyond her legislative work, Dawkins-Haigler is an ordained minister and community leader that continues to champion causes for marginalized populations across the state.
Mr. Harry Kalaba
President, Citizens First Party Zambia
Harry Kalaba is a notable Zambian politician and the President of the Citizens First Party. Born on June 12, 1976, in Mansa District, Luapula Province, he has held several key positions in Zambian politics. He served as the Foreign Affairs Minister from 2014 to 2018 and was a Member of Parliament for Bahati from 2011 to 2019. Initially a member of the Patriotic Front, he later joined the Democratic Party before establishing the Citizens First Party in 2022. Kalaba is recognized for his anti-corruption stance and commitment to democracy in Zambia.
Her Excellency – Nomvula Paula Mokonyane
Deputy Secretary-General, African National Congress South Africa
Nomvula Paula Mokonyane is a key figure in South African politics, currently serving as the First Deputy Secretary-General of the African National Congress (ANC) since December 2022. Born on June 28, 1963, in Kagiso, she has a long history of activism and public service. Mokonyane has held several significant positions, including Premier of Gauteng (2009-2014), Minister of Water and Sanitation, Minister of Communications, and Minister of Environmental Affairs. She has been a member of the ANC National Executive Committee since 2007 and is known for her dedication to public service and governance.
Dr. Kevin Greenidge
– Governor, Central Bank of Barbados, Bridgetown, Barbados
Dr. Kevin Greenidge is the Governor of the Central Bank of Barbados, appointed on March 1, 2023. He has a robust background in economics, having worked as a Senior Economist at the IMF and as a Senior Economic Advisor to the Government of Barbados. Dr. Greenidge played a pivotal role in the Barbados Economic Recovery and Transformation (BERT) Programme. He holds a Ph.D. in Economics from the University of Nottingham, an M.Phil. from the University of Cambridge, and a B.Sc. from the University of the West Indies. His extensive research and publications focus on financial liberalization and economic growth in small island economies.
H.E Rt. Hon. Raila Odinga
Former Prime Minister, Republic of Kenya
Raila Odinga is a significant figure in Kenyan politics, who has served as the Prime Minister from 2008 to 2013. Born on January 7, 1945, he is the son of Kenya’s first Vice President, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga. Raila has been a Member of Parliament for Langata and is the leader of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) and the Azimio la Umoja–One Kenya Coalition Party. Known for his persistent efforts towards democracy and reform, he has run for President five times. He also served as the African Union High Representative for Infrastructure Development from 2018 to 2023.
H.E. Sen. Douye Diri CON
Executive Governor, Bayelsa State, Nigeria
Senator Douye Diri, CON, is the Executive Governor of Bayelsa State, Nigeria. With a background in Political Science, he has a distinguished political career focused on public service and community development. Before becoming governor, he served as a Senator for the Bayelsa Central Senatorial District, actively engaging in legislative reforms.
As governor, Senator Diri prioritizes sustainable development, economic growth, and infrastructure improvement. His administration emphasizes education, healthcare, youth empowerment, and environmental sustainability, addressing the unique challenges of the Niger Delta region. Known for his inclusive leadership style, he collaborates with various stakeholders to enhance the living conditions in Bayelsa State, aiming to build a prosperous and resilient future for its people.
Dr. Benedito Paulo Manuel
Director General, Catoca Mining Angola
H.E. Dr. Benedito Paulo Manuel is the Director General of Sociedade Mineira De Catoca Lda, Angola’s largest diamond mining company and the fourth largest globally. With over 20 years of experience in mining engineering and business administration, Dr. Manuel has been pivotal in advancing Catoca’s operations. His leadership focuses on enhancing efficiency, implementing innovative mining technologies, and promoting sustainability. Under his guidance, Catoca has expanded its mining concessions, adopted cutting-edge technologies, and launched community-focused initiatives.
ALM POTY 2024 WINNERS
Eng. Victor B. Mapani, Managing Director,
Zambia Electricity Supply Corporation Limited (ZESCO)
Engr. Victor B. Mapani is the Managing Director of ZESCO, Zambia’s top electricity supplier, with over 20 years of experience in the energy sector. A graduate in Electrical Engineering, he has held various technical and leadership roles in power generation, transmission, and distribution. Under his leadership, ZESCO has focused on expanding the national grid, boosting power generation, and integrating renewable energy. Engr. Mapani is dedicated to operational excellence, sustainability, and team development, positioning him as a key figure in Zambia’s efforts to achieve energy security and foster economic growth.
Mr. Daniel Asiedu
Managing Director OmniBSIC Bank Limited, Ghana
Daniel Asiedu is an experienced banker and Chartered Accountant with nearly 30 years of expertise in auditing, business consulting, banking, financial management, and investment. He holds multiple advanced degrees, including an Executive MBA in Finance, an MA in Economic Policy Management, and an MSc in Development Finance from the University of Ghana, along with a BSc in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Ibadan, Nigeria. He has attended executive courses at prestigious institutions such as Harvard Business School, Wharton, and Stanford.
As a former Managing Director of ADB and Zenith Bank Ghana, he led both banks to significant growth and profitability. Currently the Managing Director of OmniBSIC Bank, Daniel has successfully guided the bank to full capitalization and profitability, achieving a 316% increase in Profit Before Tax and a 104% rise in customer deposits by Q3 2023. He was honored with the 2023 Global Well-Respected CEO in Banking Award and recognized as the Personality of the Year at the Ghana CEO and Business Awards.
H.E Martin Gama Abucha
Honorable Minister, Ministry of Mining, South Sudan
Mr. Martin Gama Abucha, the Minister of Mining in South Sudan since 2021, brings over 15 years of expertise in consulting, business administration, engineering, IT, and project management. His leadership has revitalized South Sudan’s mining sector through mineral development initiatives and the restructuring of the Ministry of Mining for greater efficiency and accountability. He has established key government entities like the Mining Corporation and Geological Authority, while advocating for regulatory reforms to attract mining investment. Abucha is also overseeing South Sudan’s first comprehensive geological survey and has aligned the country with strategic continental mining institutions.
Ms. Reta Jo Lewis
President and Chairman of the Export-Import Bank of the United States (EXIM)
Ms. Reta Jo Lewis is the President and Chairman of the Export-Import Bank of the United States (EXIM), where she leads the efforts of the agency to support American businesses in exporting goods and services abroad. With decades of experience in international affairs, trade policy, and economic development, Lewis has held prominent roles in both the public and private sectors. Before she joined EXIM, she served as a diplomat and as Special Representative for Global Intergovernmental Affairs at the U.S. Department of State. Throughout her career, Lewis has championed economic diplomacy, trade promotion, and inclusive economic growth, working to create opportunities for U.S. businesses globally.
Van McCormick,
Founding Executive Director of the International Economic Alliance (IEA) at Harvard University
Van McCormick is the Founding Executive Director of the International Economic Alliance (IEA) at Harvard University, an influential platform that fosters dialogue and collaboration between global business leaders, policymakers, and academics. Under his leadership, IEA has organized high-profile events, including forums on international trade, investment, and economic diplomacy.
With a strong background in international relations and economic policy, with a career spanning government, academia, and the private sector. McCormick work focuses on bridging gaps between nations through economic partnerships, fostering cross-border cooperation, and promoting global economic growth. McCormick’s efforts have positioned him as a key player in international economic diplomacy and global policy development.
Hon. Dee Dawkins-Haigler,
Former Chair of the Georgia Legislative Black Caucus
Hon. Dee Dawkins-Haigler is a former Georgia State Representative and the former Chair of the Georgia Legislative Black Caucus, one of the largest Black caucuses in the U.S. state legislatures. A dedicated advocate for civil rights, social justice, and economic empowerment, Dawkins-Haigler has been a prominent voice in Georgia politics, focusing on issues like education, healthcare access, criminal justice reform, and voter rights.
She played a significant role in advancing legislation that aimed to uplift underserved communities and promote equality, in her time in the Georgia House of Representatives. Beyond her legislative work, Dawkins-Haigler is an ordained minister and community leader that continues to champion causes for marginalized populations across the state.
Mr. Harry Kalaba
President, Citizens First Party Zambia
Harry Kalaba is a notable Zambian politician and the President of the Citizens First Party. Born on June 12, 1976, in Mansa District, Luapula Province, he has held several key positions in Zambian politics. He served as the Foreign Affairs Minister from 2014 to 2018 and was a Member of Parliament for Bahati from 2011 to 2019. Initially a member of the Patriotic Front, he later joined the Democratic Party before establishing the Citizens First Party in 2022. Kalaba is recognized for his anti-corruption stance and commitment to democracy in Zambia.
Her Excellency – Nomvula Paula Mokonyane
Deputy Secretary-General, African National Congress South Africa
Nomvula Paula Mokonyane is a key figure in South African politics, currently serving as the First Deputy Secretary-General of the African National Congress (ANC) since December 2022. Born on June 28, 1963, in Kagiso, she has a long history of activism and public service. Mokonyane has held several significant positions, including Premier of Gauteng (2009-2014), Minister of Water and Sanitation, Minister of Communications, and Minister of Environmental Affairs. She has been a member of the ANC National Executive Committee since 2007 and is known for her dedication to public service and governance.
Dr. Kevin Greenidge
– Governor, Central Bank of Barbados, Bridgetown, Barbados
Dr. Kevin Greenidge is the Governor of the Central Bank of Barbados, appointed on March 1, 2023. He has a robust background in economics, having worked as a Senior Economist at the IMF and as a Senior Economic Advisor to the Government of Barbados. Dr. Greenidge played a pivotal role in the Barbados Economic Recovery and Transformation (BERT) Programme. He holds a Ph.D. in Economics from the University of Nottingham, an M.Phil. from the University of Cambridge, and a B.Sc. from the University of the West Indies. His extensive research and publications focus on financial liberalization and economic growth in small island economies.
H.E Rt. Hon. Raila Odinga
Former Prime Minister, Republic of Kenya
Raila Odinga is a significant figure in Kenyan politics, who has served as the Prime Minister from 2008 to 2013. Born on January 7, 1945, he is the son of Kenya’s first Vice President, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga. Raila has been a Member of Parliament for Langata and is the leader of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) and the Azimio la Umoja–One Kenya Coalition Party. Known for his persistent efforts towards democracy and reform, he has run for President five times. He also served as the African Union High Representative for Infrastructure Development from 2018 to 2023.
H.E. Sen. Douye Diri CON
Executive Governor, Bayelsa State, Nigeria
Senator Douye Diri, CON, is the Executive Governor of Bayelsa State, Nigeria. With a background in Political Science, he has a distinguished political career focused on public service and community development. Before becoming governor, he served as a Senator for the Bayelsa Central Senatorial District, actively engaging in legislative reforms.
As governor, Senator Diri prioritizes sustainable development, economic growth, and infrastructure improvement. His administration emphasizes education, healthcare, youth empowerment, and environmental sustainability, addressing the unique challenges of the Niger Delta region. Known for his inclusive leadership style, he collaborates with various stakeholders to enhance the living conditions in Bayelsa State, aiming to build a prosperous and resilient future for its people.
Dr. Benedito Paulo Manuel
Director General, Catoca Mining Angola
H.E. Dr. Benedito Paulo Manuel is the Director General of Sociedade Mineira De Catoca Lda, Angola’s largest diamond mining company and the fourth largest globally. With over 20 years of experience in mining engineering and business administration, Dr. Manuel has been pivotal in advancing Catoca’s operations. His leadership focuses on enhancing efficiency, implementing innovative mining technologies, and promoting sustainability. Under his guidance, Catoca has expanded its mining concessions, adopted cutting-edge technologies, and launched community-focused initiatives.