By Amin Kef (Ranger)
In a powerful testament to her enduring contributions to peacebuilding and cultural diplomacy in Africa, former Sierra Leonean Minister of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, Dr. Memunatu Pratt, was decorated with the prestigious title of “Commander of Peace” during the 14th Pan-African Leadership Symposium and Awards (PALESH) 2025, held on April 4, 2025 at the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA) in Victoria Island, Lagos.
Themed: “Adaptive Leadership & Stability in Africa: Prospects & Challenges,” the symposium drew distinguished African leaders, diplomats, scholars and policymakers from across the continent to deliberate on good governance, conflict resolution and the strategic role of cultural diplomacy in consolidating peace in Africa.
Dr. Memunatu Pratt’s recognition was the culmination of her thought-provoking keynote address titled: “The Role of Good Governance and Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) Mechanisms for Consolidating Peaceful Coexistence in Africa – A Conceptual Approach.” Delivered on April 4, her speech offered a powerful narrative on how cultural diplomacy, when effectively integrated into regional peace strategies, can serve as a transformative tool in bridging ideological divides and fostering sustainable peace.
“Culture is not merely heritage; it is a living tool of diplomacy,” Dr. Memunatu Pratt emphasized, urging African nations to adopt and institutionalize traditional, culture-based conflict resolution mechanisms. She cited global initiatives such as the Fulbright Program, Alliance Française and the British Council as successful models that Africa could emulate in building mutual understanding and cohesion.
In her presentation, Dr. Memunatu Pratt defined cultural diplomacy as a potent form of soft power capable of cultivating trust, tolerance and shared values; ingredients she believes are critical to achieving what scholars refer to as “positive peace.” According to her, sustainable peace should not be understood as the mere absence of conflict, but rather as a state rooted in justice, equity, human well-being and cultural unity.
Her passionate advocacy was met with a standing ovation and her crowning as Commander of Peace was seen not only as a personal achievement but also as a national honour for Sierra Leone. The award positions Sierra Leone as a key voice in Africa’s diplomatic and cultural discourse and reinforces the nation’s contribution to peace and stability across the region.
PALESH 2025, convened under the auspices of the United Nations International Peace and Governance Council (UNIPGC), tackled a range of critical issues, including:
- The implications of the withdrawal of Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger from ECOWAS
- Mediation, reconciliation and ADR mechanisms
- Cultural diplomacy as a conceptual approach to sustainable peace through tourism
- The role of traditional institutions in enhancing peaceful coexistence
- The nexus between good governance, security and national development
Other notable speakers included renowned Kenyan scholar Professor PLO Lumumba, former Liberian Vice President Dr. Jewel Howard Taylor, South African diplomat Hon. Grace Naledi Pandor, Senator Dr. Grace Folashade Bent of Nigeria and Mr. Samuel Kalkoumdo, Special Adviser to the President of Burkina Faso.
The sessions were expertly moderated by celebrated Nigerian journalist and Channels TV anchor Amarachi Ubani, who guided the discourse with insight and precision.
In his closing remarks, Ambassador Dr. Jonathan Ojadah, Global President of UNIPGC and convener of PALESH 2025, reiterated the event’s mission to spotlight visionary leaders across Africa and promote alternative solutions to the continent’s enduring challenges. He commended Dr. Memunatu Pratt for her intellectual leadership and lifelong commitment to cultural advocacy, peace promotion and diplomatic innovation.
Other honourees at the event included:
- E. Ambassador Selestine G. Kakele – Tanzania High Commissioner to Nigeria
- E. Brig. Gen. (Rtd) Ambassador Dr. Chief Williams Wallace – Honorary Consul of Bermuda and Antigua
- E. George Muhali Imbuwa – Zambia High Commissioner to Nigeria
- E. Ambassador Julius F. Sandy – Sierra Leone High Commissioner to Nigeria
- Beatrice Koko Kallay – Head of Liaison, Sierra Leone High Commission in Lagos
Dr. Memunatu Pratt’s recognition as “Commander of Peace” underscores her status as a continental trailblazer in cultural diplomacy. Her voice continues to resonate in policy spaces, academic institutions, and community forums as she champions the unifying power of culture in driving Africa toward a more peaceful, stable, and prosperous future.
