Celebrating excellence in African leadership and creating manifestos for the future

The 6th CEO Breakfast Retreat The CEO Accelerator Programme, the premier leadership development platform for C-Suite leaders, recently hosted its 6th CEO Breakfast Retreat under the theme: ‘Celebrating Excellence in African Hospitality and Leadership’, in partnership with TEMPLE Advisory.

The CEO Accelerator Programme remains a guiding force for transformative leadership, empowering leaders to adopt a bold, new mindset and develop the executive skills necessary for managing complex organisations in a rapidly changing environment.

CEOs from different industries came together to connect and learn, celebrate their progress, and create new paths for effective leadership. It was a catalyst for transformative leadership, showcasing Africa’s immense potential.

John Addo Kufuor, CEO of The African Regent Hotel, delivered an inspiring keynote address, drawing from his leadership journey. His words resonated deeply: “We need to shift our perspective from focusing solely on Ghana to embracing a leadership that extends across Africa. Our mindset must be bold and visionary.”

He stated the need to produce quality goods and services and build a strong foundation, including a solid business plan, a skilled team, and a clear structure. These, he stated, are critical for success in any venture. Kufuor also underscored unity and mutual support, reminding attendees of the wisdom in the African proverb: “If you want to go fast, go alone; if you want to go far, go together.” His reflections on overcoming challenges inspired a call to action for leaders to think expansively, create opportunities, and lead with courage.

The Wellness Lab segment, facilitated by Kristyne Twum, CEO of Kedar Health & Wellness, took all CEOs present through basic metabolism checks. Leaders underwent metabolism checks and gained valuable insights into managing stress and optimising health. Twum’s message was clear: effective leadership starts with well-being.

“Your metabolic age should ideally be a decade younger than your actual age,” she said, urging leaders to adopt practical habits such as staying hydrated, eating colourful, nutrient-rich foods, and prioritising rest. The link between personal health and professional performance was a poignant takeaway for many. This year’s retreat introduced a revolutionary initiative: developing individual leadership manifestos.

Guided by the overarching theme, attendees were challenged and tasked to craft their leadership manifestos for 2025 and beyond. These manifestos serve as roadmaps for intentional and impactful leadership, reflecting a commitment to driving change within their organisations and communities.

Speaking on the theme of ‘Celebrating Excellence in African Hospitality and Leadership’, the convener of the CEO Accelerator Programmeme and Chief Learning Strategist at TEMPLE Advisory Limited, Robert Marshall Bennin, observed that an example of that bold, ambitious, expansive, efficient, and excellence in Ghanaian leadership is the African Regent Hotel and the leadership of African Regent Hotel. He stated that to build our nation, “leaders must act with urgency, boldness, and efficiency.

This requires us to clarify our leadership purpose and articulate manifestos that are bold, enduring and fulfils the aspirations of our stakeholders.” He encouraged leaders to focus on roles only they can fulfil, establish rhythms for effective time management across annual, monthly, weekly, and daily plans, and optimise their energy by protecting physical, emotional, and mental well-being. He admits that achieving this demands clarity of purpose and making bold commitments to each other.

Attendees left the retreat with renewed vigour and actionable insights. Dr. Stephane Nwolley, CEO of Npontu Technologies, expressed, “I was inspired by Chief Kuffour’s journey.” His story reminds me that I am not alone, and if he has not given up, then we have no excuse to give up either. I now know I am leaving here with a leadership manifesto that will guide me throughout my leadership journey, and I will be intentional about it. Our company has a CEO Accelerator calendar where we regularly meet and reflect on our progress. Thank you, Robert.

Nashiru Iddrisu, Managing Director of Hollard Life, expressed gratitude, adding, “Beyond the insights shared, my biggest takeaway is the importance of action. You only win when you take action.” Through wisdom shared, connections formed, and manifestos crafted, the stage is set for a new era of African leadership.

Adwoa Asare-Asamoah, Lead Consultant at CX Hatchery and Associates Limited, shared her appreciation, stating: “Thank you, Robert, for bringing us together. I pledge to be a part of the next breakfast meeting. My biggest takeaway is the importance of taking responsibility for my actions and learning from the mistakes I make in the process.” Together, these leaders are poised to redefine what it means to lead with excellence and purpose.

CEO Accelerator Programme:

The CEO Accelerator Programme is a strategically curated network of highly effective C-Suite leaders who connect to share expertise, peer coach and challenge each other to accelerate personal and enterprise transformation. The CEO Accelerator Programme is a 9-month peer learning and coaching journey that helps leaders adopt a bold new mindset, manage their calendars effectively, and adapt to a rapidly changing environment.

The mission of the CEO Accelerator Programme is to build a cadre of leaders who will usher corporate Africa into a glorious future. We believe that the future of Africa is in the hands of those who lead our institutions.

Seven cohorts with 50 leaders from 20 business sectors have completed the CEO Accelerator Programme in the past four years. The programme is a testament to the power of collaboration, peer coaching, and accountability.  Visit our website https://ceoacceleratorprogram.org/ for more information.

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