Angélique Kidjo Wins Lifetime Achievement at Best of Africa Awards 2025
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Legendary Beninese singer, songwriter, and activist Angélique Kidjo was honoured with the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2025 Best of Africa Awards held in London on Sunday, October 26. The recognition crowned an evening that celebrated African brilliance and global influence — a night where art, culture, and legacy took center stage. Kidjo’s win was one of the most emotional highlights of the ceremony, a fitting tribute to a woman whose voice and vision have carried Africa’s rhythm to the world.
The Beninese-born icon, known for her electrifying voice and humanitarian work, shared the news on Monday via social media, expressing deep gratitude to the organizers and reflecting on her journey as an artist and activist.
“A night to remember: receiving The BEST OF AFRICA Lifetime Achievement Award from @boa_awards yesterday !!!!🥰🏆 Hosted by the crazy @comeddiekadi with fellow nominee maestro @ozwald_boateng and my friends @awilolongomba and David Ferguson. Thanks to everyone at Best Of Africa!” she wrote.
Angélique Kidjo: A Global Cultural Icon
Over her remarkable career, Angélique Kidjo has become one of Africa’s most celebrated artists, blending traditional African sounds with jazz, funk, and global rhythms. She is a five-time Grammy Award winner, a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador, and the first African artist to receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2022.
Beyond music, Kidjo founded the Batonga Foundation, a non-profit focused on educating and empowering young girls across Africa. Her influence continues to inspire generations to embrace their roots while breaking global barriers.
Inside the Best of Africa Awards 2025
Hosted by comedian Eddie Kadi, the Best of Africa Awards 2025 brought together an impressive lineup of honourees, celebrities, athletes, and philanthropists. The ceremony celebrated Africans who are shaping industries, driving innovation, and creating change worldwide.
From the Outstanding Management Award presented to Nuno Espírito Santo for his leadership legacy in football, to Alex Iwobi’s Baobab Award in Sport and Patoranking’s Entertainment Award, every recipient embodied the event’s mission — to highlight Africa’s excellence, resilience, and unity.
CEO Aisha Hughton captured the night’s spirit perfectly:
“Each honouree reminds us of the extraordinary impact Africans continue to make. The energy and sense of community tonight truly reflect the spirit of Africa.”
A Powerful Closing Moment
The ceremony reached its crescendo when Angélique Kidjo took the stage to accept her award — and then delivered an unforgettable live performance. Her powerful vocals filled the hall as guests stood in ovation, dancing and singing along. It was a moment of shared pride and celebration that embodied the essence of African creativity and cultural influence.
The Future of African Excellence
Since its inception, the Best of Africa Awards has sought to celebrate individuals and organizations making meaningful contributions across the African continent and diaspora. The 2025 edition reinforced one message — African excellence is not emerging; it’s leading.
As the applause faded, one truth lingered in the air: Africa’s cultural icons, from music to philanthropy, continue to shape the world’s future. And Angélique Kidjo remains one of its brightest lights.
Lois is an accomplished journalist and media strategist with deep experience in editorial leadership, storytelling, and global communications. With a creative vision and strong network, she elevates Afro Diaspora Pulse’s editorial quality, brand positioning, and visibility.
