In a powerful show of continental unity and vision, the League of African Ambassadors (LAA) is set to officially launch in Lusaka, Zambia, promising to become a game-changer in Africa’s socio-political and economic diplomacy.
On the evening of October 5th, 2025, distinguished members of the LAA, led by Ambassador Ominyi Nwanne, the Interim President of the League of African Ambassadors (LAA), the immediate past Nigerian High Commissioner to Zambia and Zambian Special Envoy Ambassador Lazarus Kapambwe, held an exclusive briefing and dinner at Pamodzi Hotel, outlining plans for the historic event.
Among the distinguished guests was the Board of Trustees member representing West Africa and former Nigerian Army Chief, His Excellency Ambassador Lt. General T.Y. Buratai, who is currently on an on-ground assessment mission ahead of the launch.
Buratai’s Message of Unity and Vision for Africa
General Buratai commended the Zambian President, His Excellency Hakainde Hichilema, for his progressive leadership of Zambia and Africa. He appreciated the Zambian President for graciously taking over the hosting of the LAA and its grand launch scheduled for October 14 and 15, 2025.
Reflecting on Africa’s liberation movements in the 19th and 20th centuries, Buratai recalled the immense contributions of Zambia’s founding father, Dr. Kenneth Kaunda, of blessed memory. “Kenneth Kaunda will always be remembered for his unwavering commitment to Pan-Africanism and liberation. He was a champion of peace, unity, and reconciliation — a man of profound humility and personal integrity,” Buratai said.
He urged the League to continue from where Africa’s founding fathers stopped, stressing that the issues of security, development, and progress remain elusive across the continent. With the birth of the LAA, Buratai called for a new era of robust, progressive, and pragmatic diplomacy to tackle Africa’s myriad challenges.
The former Army Chief also commended the interim president, the chairman and vice chairman of the local organising committee, and all members for their vision, solidarity, commitment, and sacrifices toward ensuring the success of the launch.
Buratai was accompanied by his close friend, His Royal Majesty, Oba Alhaji (Dr.) Hameed Oyelude Makama, Tegbosun III, the Olowu of Owu-Kuta Kingdom, a distinguished and influential monarch from Osun State, Nigeria.
A Call to Action for Africa
In a stirring statement, Deputy Spokesperson Ambassador John J. Usanga urged all African stakeholders to “join the League, lend your voice, and shape Africa’s future together. History will judge us not by our hesitations, but by the actions we take today.”
Zanaco: A Strategic Partner in Economic Diplomacy
Ahead of the launch, the LAA planning committee made a courtesy visit to Zanaco headquarters in downtown Lusaka, where CEO Ms. Mukwandi Chibesakunda hailed the League as a vital partner in advancing Africa’s economic diplomacy.
“The knowledge and experience I see in this room is immense,” she said, noting that the LAA complements existing government initiatives and can catalyze long-term continental growth.
The LAA, a non-profit and non-political continental body comprising retired and serving envoys, models itself after the Council of American Ambassadors in the United States and the European Council on Foreign Relations. Its inaugural launch, scheduled for October 14th, will host delegates from across Africa and beyond.
Ambassador Sylvester Mundanda, the LAA’s administrative head, added, “Zanaco’s pan-African reach and credibility make it the perfect partner as we pursue economic diplomacy. Their commitment to sustainability, financial growth, and social development aligns seamlessly with our vision for Africa Rising.”
Building on Experience, Recycling Wisdom
Ambassador Kapambwe emphasized the League’s mission: “Recycling wisdom and experience earned at a huge cost is invaluable. If we can recycle plastic, why not recycle the knowledge and expertise of Africa’s ambassadors?”
The Lusaka launch promises to set the stage for an enduring legacy, ensuring that Africa’s diplomatic experience is preserved, shared, and leveraged for the continent’s development.
Interim President Ominyi Nwanne, Foreign Affairs Minister Hon. Mulambo Haimbe, and other key stakeholders were recognized for their pivotal roles in making this historic event possible.
With Zambia’s central location, peaceful democratic credentials, and growing reputation as a hub for regional diplomacy, the LAA’s continental launch is poised to become a defining moment for Africa’s collective vision and ambition.
Africa Rising: The Journey Begins
As the countdown to October 14th continues, one message resonates across the continent: Africa’s future is a shared responsibility — and the League of African Ambassadors is ready to lead by example.
