Akon to receive BET’s Global Good Award

Ahead of this year’s BET Awards, the organisers have announced that hip-hop superstar and global humanitarian Akon is the recipient of the 2016 Global Good Award at the BET Awards. The second annual Global Good Award is presented as a part of the organization and honours individuals championing causes, which positively impact change and heighten awareness in different parts of the world.

A Grammy- and BET Award-nominated, two-time multi-platinum musical artist, producer, entrepreneur, and philanthropist, Akon holds a place in industry history as one of music’s most influential voices and is this year’s 2016 Global Good Award honouree.

Born in America to Senegalese parents, Akon developed a love for Senegal and deep desire to help the nation’s youth. In 2007, he launched the Konfidence Foundation, dedicated to providing Senegalese youth with educational resources and access to health services. In 2014, Akon co-founded Akon Lighting Africa, which currently brings solar-powered electricity to the homes of over 600 million people in more than 11 countries in rural Africa.

He also helped launch the Solar Academy in Bamako, Mali, where engineers will be taught how to develop solar power, and has expanded his impact beyond Africa by teaming up with government officials in several Latin American countries, including Brazil, to bring electricity to needy homes.

Eva Marcille and Jidenna will present the Global Good Award, as a part of the BET Awards. Hosted by Anthony Anderson and Tracee Ellis Ross, the award ceremony will include performances by Usher, Future, Bryson Tiller, Alicia Keys and Maxwell with special performances in honour of the late pop icon Prince by Sheila E., Janelle Monae, D’Angelo, The Roots and more.