Three distinguished personalities were honoured at the inaugural WACREN Community Excellence Awards, which debuted at the WACREN 2025 Conference in Senegal. This inaugural edition paid tribute to trailblazers who have made significant contributions to the development of digital infrastructure, advocacy and leadership. The late Dr Boubakar Barry received the Posthumous Special Award for Outstanding Leadership and Lasting Impact. This award recognised his pioneering contribution to shaping research and education networks across Africa. Prof. Nii Narku Quaynor, widely regarded as the “Father of the Internet in Africa”, and former Board Chair of WACREN, received the Award for Visionary Leadership in Advancing Research and Education Networks. This was a sign of commendation for his pivotal role in expanding WACREN’s reach and influence, leaving a lasting impact on digital inclusion and policy across the continent. Prof. Akilakpa Sawyerr, whose lifetime of influence in academia and public policy has uplifted the cause of connectivity for education and research, received an Award for Leadership and Advocacy in Advancing NRENs. WACREN also announced the establishment of two awards: the Boubakar Barry Award for Leadership and Engineering in Advancing NRENs and the Akilakpa Sawyerr Award for Leadership and Advocacy in Advancing NRENs. Both awards will be presented biennially in 2026 This recognition initiative is expected to urge community members to strive for excellence and innovation to advance the research and education landscape in the WACREN region and beyond. To perpetuate the work of WACREN’s first CEO, Ms. Boubakar Barry, presented the new CEO with a symbolic award to be passed on to each successor. This trophy embodies not only the longevity of WACREN but also the commitment of those who will succeed Dr. Boubakar Barry to keep the spirit of WACREN alive and shining by keeping its torch always burning.
