Commonwealth congratulates Chissano on winning African leadership prize

On behalf of the Commonwealth, Acting Secretary-General Mrs Florence Mugasha today expressed her delight that the former President of Mozambique, Joaquim Chissano, has been awarded the inaugural Mo Ibrahim Prize for good governance and leadership in Africa. 

“The Commonwealth is proud that the first winner of this prestigious prize is an outstanding leader from one of our member countries, said Mrs Mugasha. “During his Presidency, Joaquim Chissano helped to bring peace, reconciliation, democracy and robust economic growth to Mozambique.  He then stepped down and oversaw peaceful and democratic elections which selected his successor.” 

“We recall with gratitude Mr Chissano’s support for our Commonwealth efforts in assisting Swaziland to design its new Constitution.  He is also playing a key role in the peace process between the Government and the Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA) in Uganda.” 

Echoing the vision of the Mo Ibrahim Prize, Mrs Mugasha stated: “it is my sincere hope that the establishment of this new Award will encourage the leaders of the African continent to surmount the development challenges of their countries, improve living standards and create political stability.  It is our Commonwealth belief that Development and Democracy are mutually reinforcing, and that good governance is a foundation on which both will flourish.  Inspiring leadership can transform societies, and in saluting the achievements of President Chissano we call upon all African leaders to prize the good governance that brings just, efficient and transparent administration.”
 
Mozambique became the Commonwealth's 53rd member with the agreement of all the other members, at the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in New Zealand in November 1995.

Secretariat Links:

• Country Profile: Mozambique