Inside Kampala University’s recognition at Global Well-Respected CEOs 2026 Awards in Kigali

Elias Hakizimana Mar 18, 2026Mar 18, 2026 0 Comments

By Elias Hakizimana.

Kampala University has emerged among the honored institutions at the Global Well-Respected CEOs 2026 Awards, a high-level international platform recognizing leaders driving both business excellence and inclusive societal impact.

Held on March 10, 2026, at M Hotel Kigali, the event brought together global executives, policymakers, and institutional leaders under the theme “The Inclusive Legacy: Building Our Global Future.” The platform celebrates leadership that goes beyond profit to embrace sustainability, ethics, and long-term transformation.

Representation at the ceremony

Kampala University’s Founding Vice-Chancellor, Ambassador Professor Alhaji Badru Dungu Kateregga, who was the recipient of the Lifetime Achievement recognition, was unable to attend the ceremony in person. He was officially represented by Mr. Muhammad Faquih Kateregga, Deputy Resident Director of Kampala University.

***Mr. Muhammad Faquih Kateregga receives the Lifetime Achievement recognition on behalf of Ambassador Professor Alhaji Badru Dungu Kateregga during the awards ceremony in Kigali.***

Speaking to The Inspirer on behalf of the Founding Vice-Chancellor, Mr. Kateregga conveyed that the recognition reflects a legacy of dedication to advancing higher education and youth empowerment across East Africa.

“This Lifetime Achievement Award represents not merely a personal milestone, but a profound affirmation of a lifelong commitment to strengthening education and empowering young people in the region,” he said.

***Mr. Muhammad Faquih Kateregga, Deputy Resident Director of Kampala University, speaks after representing the Founding Vice-Chancellor at the Global Well-Respected CEOs 2026 Awards in Kigali.***

Recognition beyond an individual

He emphasized that the award goes beyond individual recognition, symbolizing the broader impact of Kampala University’s leadership and its contribution to regional development through education.

According to him, the honor reinforces the central role of academic institutions in shaping inclusive growth and sustainable transformation.

Boosting Kampala University’s mission

For Kampala University and its affiliated institutions—including The East African University in Kenya and East African University Rwanda—the recognition signals international validation of their long-standing investment in accessible and quality education.

Mr. Kateregga noted that the award strengthens their shared mission of producing skilled, disciplined, and visionary graduates capable of shaping Africa’s future.

“It validates decades of investment in building education systems that nurture graduates prepared to lead, innovate, and contribute meaningfully to society,” he said.

Mr. Muhammad Faquih Kateregga, Deputy Resident Director of Kampala University, is adorned with a medal on behalf of the Founding Vice-Chancellor during the Global Well-Respected CEOs 2026 Awards in Kigali.

Driving regional and global impact

Beyond recognition, the award is expected to unlock broader opportunities for the university and its partners. Mr. Kateregga highlighted that the impact will extend into deeper collaboration between academia, industry, and policymakers.

He added that the recognition will inspire emerging leaders, attract strategic partnerships, and reinforce ongoing efforts in innovation, entrepreneurship, and sustainable development.

“This honor will serve as a catalyst to empower the next generation and strengthen East Africa’s role in the global knowledge economy,” he said.

Mr. Muhammad Faquih Kateregga, Deputy Resident Director of Kampala University, arrives at the Global Well-Respected CEOs 2026 Awards in Kigali alongside fellow university staff ( in blue suit, Lubega Mubarak, Guild President, and Mubiru Faisal, Sports Director in Khaki suit).

A platform for inclusive leadership

The Global Well-Respected CEOs Awards, organized by The Business Executive Media Group, applies a rigorous selection process combining public nominations, independent research, and evaluation by an international jury.

Leaders are assessed on criteria such as ethical governance, innovation, social impact, and leadership excellence.

The Kigali event featured a global leadership conference, panel discussions, and networking sessions, culminating in a gala ceremony recognizing outstanding leaders across sectors.

Kampala University’s recognition at the 2026 edition not only elevates its institutional profile but also positions it as a key player in advancing inclusive, future-focused education in Africa.