Zimbabwean entrepreneur and the visionary behind the Econet Group, Strive Masiyiwa, has been bestowed with the esteemed W.E.B. Du Bois Medal by Harvard University.
This prestigious award, considered the highest honour in African and African American studies at the institution, was presented during a ceremony held at the Hutchins Center for African & African American Research on October 1, 2024.
The W.E.B. Du Bois Medal celebrates individuals significantly contributing to African and African American history, culture, and social justice. Mr. Masiyiwa was among eight luminaries recognized for their relentless efforts and leadership in promoting societal change. Other recipients included acclaimed filmmaker Spike Lee and renowned actor LeVar Burton.
Henry Louis Gates, Jr., the Director of the Hutchins Center, praised the honorees for their dedication to confronting complex social issues such as racism, sexism, and xenophobia. In his address, Gates highlighted these leaders’ pivotal role in safeguarding freedom of thought, fostering equality, and preserving the cultural legacy of people of African descent.
Strive Masiyiwa’s Expansive Influence Beyond Telecommunications
While widely recognized for his groundbreaking achievements in telecommunications through the establishment of Econet Group and its subsidiary, Cassava Technologies, Mr. Masiyiwa’s impact transcends the business realm. His philanthropic ventures, primarily through the Higherlife Foundation, have profoundly influenced the lives of over 300,000 young Africans by providing educational scholarships and opportunities for empowerment.
