AFRICAN DIAMOND COUNCIL CHAIRMAN, DR. M’ZÉE FULA NGENGE, HONOURED AS ONE OF THE 100 MOST REPUTABLE AFRICANS 2026 

Recognition by Global Reputation Forum Celebrates a Lifelong Commitment to Transparency, Integrity, and Transformative Impact in Africa’s Diamond Sector and Beyond 

The African Diamond Council (ADC) announces with immense pride that its Chairman, Dr. M’zée Fula Ngenge, has been selected for the prestigious 2026 list of ‘The 100 Most Reputable Africans’. This distinguished honour, conferred by the Global Reputation Forum in partnership with Reputation Poll International, recognises individuals who have earned global trust through lives of integrity, credibility, and measurable impact. For Dr. Ngenge, this accolade underscores a 44-year career dedicated to ethical governance, technological innovation, and leveraging Africa’s diamond resources for sustainable human development. 

The 2026 list, described as a “benchmark of trust” rather than a measure of fame or fortune, spotlights leaders across diverse sectors who are shaping Africa’s future through principled service. Dr. Ngenge’s inclusion places him among esteemed figures such as pioneering surgeon Dr. Magdi Yacoub, the visionary royal Olori Atuwatse III of Warri Kingdom in Nigeria, Ghana’s President H.E. John Dramani Mahama of Ghana, Namibia’s President H.E. Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah and Ameenah Gurib-Fakim of Mauritius. 

A Career Forged in Principle and Innovation

Dr. Ngenge, a Mining Engineer and Senior Strategy Advisor from the Republic of Angola, has been a transformative figure in the global diamond industry. His legacy began with the pioneering introduction of Ideal and Super-Ideal Cut (Hearts & Arrows) diamonds in 1986, elevating global standards for diamond craftsmanship. The veteran diamond industry administrator later played a critical role in the international fight against blood/conflict diamonds and is the lead advocate for provenance/traceability in the global diamond industry.

The expertise of this champion of women’s and youth empowerment has been instrumental in advising African governments on diamond governance, most notably in Angola’s groundbreaking “Operation Transparency,” that was designed and successfully functions as a continental revenue recovery initiative. As the current Chairman of both the African International Diamond Exchange (AIDEX) and the African Diamond Trust Fund (ADTF), Dr. Ngenge has institutionalised his vision for an ethical, transparent, and equitable diamond trade across the continent. His work has demonstrably redirected diamond revenue to improve the quality of life for African communities.  

A Multifaceted Leader for Africa’s Prosperity 

Beyond the diamond sector, Dr. Ngenge’s influence and expertise are vast. A trusted Sovereign Debt Specialist and Senior Development Finance Professional, he allocates significant focus to debt relief, restructuring, and financing critical infrastructure projects. He is also a specialist in Country Promotion and Nation Branding, with a profound impact on sectors including Arts & Culture, Aviation, Tourism, and Sports, weaving a stronger narrative for Africa on the global stage. He is the Chairman and Co-Founder of the AfricaGCC Council and a trusted champion and custodian of diaspora engagement on the African continent.

A Humble Acknowledgement of Shared Values

In response to the honour, Dr. Ngenge stated: “It is with a spirit of deep humility and profound gratitude that I receive this news. This recognition resonates deeply because it elevates the two guiding principles my core team and I hold sacred: Transparency and Integrity. In the intricate universe of the global diamond trade, where value is inherently judged with scrutiny, this distinction is a benchmark of global trust. This, to me, is the most valuable commendation of all.” 

He further reflected on the collective achievement, stating, “In the spirit of #Ubuntu, I see this not as a personal accolade, but as a shared light and a reverberating call to continue serving with unwavering principle and a commitment to the enduring prosperity of Africa.” He extended heartfelt congratulations to the ninety-nine other honourees across the continent.

About the African Diamond Council (ADC): The African Diamond Council is the premier international organization that focuses on advocacy and advisory that is dedicated to promoting ethical, transparent, and sustainable practices across the African diamond value chain. The ADC works with governments, industry stakeholders, and communities to ensure that Africa’s diamond resources catalyze lasting peace, prosperity, and development for its people. 

About The 100 Most Reputable Africans:  

Produced by the Global Reputation Forum and Reputation Poll International, The 100 Most Reputable Africans is an annual recognition that spotlights individuals whose leadership, conduct, and impact exemplify trust, integrity, and responsibility. It establishes a credible standard for ethical leadership and advances positive narratives about Africa and its global diaspora.