Johannesburg – The Mandela Awards Commission has bestowed its prestigious Mandela Award for Legacy Leadership, Service & Global Impact on Ugandan humanitarian leader Jane Frances Acilo Nkya, recognising her transformative work in education, healthcare, and community empowerment across Africa.
The recent ceremony, held on Friday, 10 April 2026, at the Park Hyatt Hotel in Rosebank, Johannesburg, gathered diplomats, policymakers, business leaders, and a proud Ugandan delegation under the theme “Legacy Leadership • Service • Global Impact.”
A Tribute to Service
Ndileka Mandela, granddaughter of Nelson Mandela and Chairperson of the Commission, delivered a moving keynote, affirming that the award honours leaders who “turn vision into impact.”
She praised Acilo Nkya’s lifelong dedication to restoring dignity and creating sustainable opportunities for women, youth, and marginalized communities.
Acilo Nkya’s Acceptance
In her heartfelt acceptance speech, Acilo Nkya described the award as “a powerful affirmation, a sacred trust.”
She reflected on her early calling to serve, recalling her student years in South Africa and grassroots work in Uganda.
She highlighted initiatives such as the Dr. Caroline Abeja Education Grant, which supports disadvantaged girls in Northern Uganda, and medical outreach programs in underserved districts like Oyam.
Her words resonated with the spirit of Ubuntu and Pan-Africanism:
“Our strength lies in our unity, our progress in our collaboration, and our future in our shared vision for an empowered Africa.”
Messages of recognition
Fikile Mbalula, Secretary-General of the African National Congress, commended Acilo Nkya in a recorded message, calling her “a true embodiment of legacy leadership in action.” He added:
“Ms. Acilo represents what Mandela envisioned – citizens who do not wait
for change but become agents of transformation in their communities
“Her dedication to restoring dignity and creating opportunity embodies the
service-oriented leadership that our continent so desperately needs.
Ambassador Paul Amoru, Uganda’s Head of Mission to South Africa, said: “It is a profound honour and a personal pleasure to join you this evening at this historic celebration of leadership, vision, and transformative impact.”
Ambassador Amoru described her as “an extraordinary daughter of Uganda” whose work has “touched thousands of lives and inspired generations.”
He also commended the Mandela Awards Commission for recognising excellence in the true spirit of Nelson Mandela, and paid tribute to Acilo as “an extraordinary daughter of Uganda.”
Highlighting Acilo’s impactful work, he noted: “Through her foundation, her work in education and health, and her empowerment of women and girls… she has touched thousands of lives and inspired generations.”
A Global Platform
The evening reinforced the Mandela Awards Commission’s role as a global stage for celebrating leaders who embody Nelson Mandela’s values of dignity, justice, and humanity.
Guests departed inspired by Acilo’s vision and the enduring power of service-driven leadership.
Guests join in celebrating award recipient Jane Frances Acilo Nkya, in a moment of pride and recognition. Among those present were Johanna Mokgosana, Branch Manager at FNB Lynnwood, Pretoria, and Dr. Daniel Echun, Board Chairman of the Confederation of Ugandans in Southern Africa 
Miguel Angelo, a BCom Law student, engaged in meaningful dialogue with Ms. Mandela, Co-Founder and Chairperson of the Mandela Awards Commission, on the importance of youth development and inclusive opportunities. 
Ayanda Holo, President of BRICS TV was the program director was the programme director 
Proud father With Hon. Lamex Omara Apitta, Member of Commission at the Uganda Human Rights Commission and father to Jane Acilo Nkya, who proudly accompanied his daughter to this special awards ceremony
