Updated by Faith Barbara N Ruhinda at 1630 EAT on Monday 13 April 2026

The Mandela Awards Commission has honoured Jane Frances Acilo Nkya, founder and executive director of the Jane Acilo Foundation, for her outstanding contribution to humanitarian work and community empowerment.

She was recognised for her long-standing commitment to restoring dignity and advancing sustainable opportunities for women, youth, and marginalised communities.

Acilo, a former student in South Africa, has built a body of work spanning education, economic empowerment, health awareness, and social protection—blending immediate humanitarian assistance with long-term development impact.

Described as a visionary leader in humanitarian and community development, her initiatives are said to continue transforming lives across Africa. The award was presented during a formal dinner ceremony at the Park Hyatt Hotel in Johannesburg.

In a recorded message, Fikile Mbalula, secretary-general of the African National Congress, congratulated Acilo and praised her dedication to service. He said her work reflects the values of former South African President Nelson Mandela and the principles of social justice and inclusive development.

Mbalula added that leaders like Acilo represent the kind of “legacy leadership” needed to drive meaningful change across the continent.

The award was presented by Ndileka Mandela, co-founder and chairperson of the Mandela Awards Commission and the eldest granddaughter of Nelson Mandela.
In her acceptance remarks, Acilo described the honour as deeply meaningful, saying it carried both recognition and responsibility.

“To receive this prestigious award is not merely an honour; it is a powerful affirmation—a sacred trust,” she said.

“I knew, absolutely knew, that my calling was to work with people,” she said. “This award reaffirms that we are on the right path. It emboldens us to reach further and continue working tirelessly with the communities we serve. Our strength lies in unity, our progress in collaboration, and our future in a shared vision for an empowered Africa.”

Jane Frances Acilo Nkya also paid tribute to her mother through the Dr Caroline Abeja Education Grant, an initiative that supports disadvantaged girls in Northern Uganda.

“This award, recognising legacy, helps to cement my mother’s legacy; it is profoundly personal,” she said.

Her work in education and healthcare continues to have an impact, including medical outreach programmes in underserved communities such as Oyam District.

Paul Amoru praised the Mandela Awards Commission for recognising excellence in the spirit of Nelson Mandela and described Acilo as “an extraordinary daughter of Uganda.”

He added that her journey demonstrates that true leadership is defined not by titles, but by the positive difference one makes in the lives of others.

-Observer

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