African Centre for Governance appoints Ian Khama as its patron

Obey Musiwa

Herald Reporter

The African Centre for Governance (ACG) has announced the appointment of former Botswana President Dr Ian Khama, as its patron, a move the organisation says will bolster its mission to strengthen democratic institutions and promote accountable leadership across Africa.

Dr Khama was appointed on August 18, with the ACG emphasising that his combination of traditional chieftaincy heritage and high-level political experience positions him to provide strategic guidance on governance reform, citizen engagement, and regional integration.

Speaking to Zimpapers on Monday, ACG executive director Mr Tumelo Mokoena said the partnership aligns Zimbabwe’s National Development Strategy (NDS), enabling the ACG to implement initiatives that support the country’s priorities.

“This development also has important meaning as Zimbabwe is currently implementing its National Development Strategy 1 and preparing towards the transition into NDS2,” he said.

“These frameworks are focused on national stability, economic growth, modernisation, and improving the lives of citizens hence, by having former President Khama as Patron, the ACG is able to align its regional initiatives in ways that resonate with those national priorities,” he said.

Mr Makonese emphasised that Dr Khama’s role will ensure initiatives in Zimbabwe ranging from reform to public engagement, align closely with the goals of the Vision 2030.

“Having a Patron such as President Khama strengthens that bridge between national aspirations and regional solidarity.

“It assures that the African Centre for Governance can continue to position Zimbabwe’s progress within the wider African governance landscape.”

He further emphasised that Dr Khama’s dual heritage of traditional leadership and statesmanship will greatly enhance the ACG’s initiatives and impact.

“He carries the wisdom of the chieftaincy, rooted in African tradition and values, and at the same time, he carries the authority and perspective of a seasoned statesman who has led his country and engaged on the highest levels in regional and international affairs.

“That dual heritage is what makes his contribution to our work particularly valuable, for the ACG, his appointment strengthens our work, our reach, and our ability to anchor initiatives in tested leadership,” said Mr Makonese.