Tamale, April 24, 2025 – In an event marked by grace, wisdom, and a powerful call for ethical transformation, Her Majesty Queen Nozizwe Mulela , Managing Director of the Bank of Eswatini and wife of His Majesty King Misuzulu kaZwelithini of the Zulu Nation in South Africa, addressed a press conference at the University for Development Studies (UDS), announcing her presence in Ghana and her readiness to deliver the much-anticipated 7th Africa Leadership Lecture Series.

The Queen, a revered African business leader and royal figure, was warmly received by members of the university community, the media, and invited dignitaries. Speaking at the UDS Central Administration Conference Hall in Tamale, Queen Nozizwe Mulela I expressed her enthusiasm about engaging with Ghanaian youth and academia on the timely theme: “Redefining Leadership for Africa’s Future: Ethics and Transformation.”

“I am deeply honored to be in Ghana and particularly here at UDS,” she said. “This university is a symbol of development-oriented thinking, and I look forward to sharing ideas on how we, as Africans, can redefine leadership for a continent that is yearning for ethical governance, transformation, and inclusive development.”

During the interactive session, the Queen responded to questions from a blend of state-owned and private media outlets. She emphasized the importance of investing in the youth, insisting that Africa’s future hinges on empowering its young population with the right values and visionary mentorship.

“We must give young Africans not just opportunities, but the belief that they are capable of changing the world,” she remarked. “The right motivation, paired with ethical guidance, can ignite a generation that leads with purpose and integrity.”

Touching on African feminism and gender equality, Queen Nozizwe Mulela I advocated for a balanced and culturally grounded approach to women’s empowerment.

“Demanding equity and fairness for women should not be perceived as a battle against men,” she said. “True feminism in Africa is about restoring balance, honoring the contributions of women, and ensuring that leadership spaces reflect the diversity of our societies.”

Her statements struck a chord with many attendees, particularly women in leadership, student leaders, and gender advocacy groups.

The 7th Africa Leadership Lecture, where Her Majesty will deliver the keynote address, is scheduled for 2:00 PM on Friday, April 25, 2025, at the Dr. Andani Andan Academic Board Chamber. The university has extended an open invitation to members of the university community and the general public to attend what promises to be a groundbreaking event in the intellectual and civic life of the institution.

UDS Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Seidu Al-hassan, in a brief remark, described the Queen’s visit as historic and her upcoming lecture as a “game-changer” for the university’s long-standing mission to produce development-oriented leaders for Africa.

As anticipation builds ahead of Friday’s address, Queen Nozizwe Mulela I’s message is already reverberating across the university—one of hope, transformation, and a new vision for leadership on the continent.

Story by:
Abdul Hayi Moomen & Eunice Akeya
UDS