African Diaspora Network (ADN) has announced that celebrated entrepreneur, philanthropist and global advocate for good governance and leadership in Africa, Sir Mo Ibrahim, will receive the 2025 Barka Award.

The award is the highest honour to be presented by ADN, recognising an individual whose lifetime of work had made a transformative impact on Africa and its diaspora during the 10th anniversary of the African Diaspora Investment Symposium (ADIS25). It will take place from May 28 to 30, 2025, in Washington, D.C.

“Barka,” an expression of gratitude spoken across a few African cultures and languages, conveys both thanks and blessings, symbolising deep appreciation and honour. In Moore’, the language of Burkina Faso, “barka” expresses a profound thank you that also imparts a blessing in return.

“Presenting the Barka Award to Sir Mo Ibrahim is both a privilege and a heartfelt expression of gratitude from the African Diaspora,” said the CEO & Founder of African Diaspora Network, Almaz Negash.”

According to a statement by AND, Sir Mo Ibrahim’s legacy as a visionary businessman and change-maker aligns with the very spirit of the Barka Award. As the founder of Celtel, he revolutionised telecommunications across Africa, bringing connectivity and opportunity to millions, adding that through the Mo Ibrahim Foundation and the Ibrahim Index of African Governance, he continues to set global standards for transparency, accountability, and principled leadership on the continent.