Freetown Mayor Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr has been honored with the prestigious 2024 German Africa Prize, recognizing her exceptional contributions to sustainable urban development and her leadership in transforming Freetown.

The German Africa Foundation, a non-partisan organization that has celebrated remarkable achievements across Africa since 1993, selected Aki-Sawyerr for her outstanding efforts in fostering democracy, peace, and human rights.

In a message shared following the announcement, Mayor Aki-Sawyerr expressed her deep gratitude for the award.

“I am truly honored to have been awarded the 2024 German Africa Prize by the German Africa Foundation,” she said.

The prize will be presented to her personally by the President of the Bundestag (German Parliament) in a ceremony scheduled for October 16th in Berlin.

Mayor Aki-Sawyerr dedicated the award to her team, colleagues, and the people of Freetown, recognizing their collective efforts in her ongoing campaign to #TransformFreetown and improve the lives of its citizens.

“This is a reflection of our commitment and combined efforts to transform lives,” she stated.

Since taking office, Mayor Aki-Sawyerr has led numerous initiatives to tackle pressing issues such as environmental sustainability, urban planning, and social development, significantly improving the capital’s outlook.

The 2024 German Africa Prize highlights her role in driving positive change, not only in Freetown but across the African continent.

The award, which has honored various African leaders, activists, and innovators, underscores Mayor Aki-Sawyerr’s impact on promoting sustainable development and her dedication to improving living standards in Freetown.