Sonko honoured with Doctorate in Leadership and Governance at global summit in London

The recognition was conferred during the 3rd Global Leadership Investment Summit and Peace Award (GLISPA) ceremony held at the House of Lords, British Parliament.

The honorary degree was presented in recognition of Sonko’s contributions to humanitarian work, social initiatives, and human capital development.

The event, organized by the UK Chapter of the United Nations International Peace and Governance Council (UNIPGC), brought together dignitaries, philanthropists, and leaders from across the world to discuss peace, good governance, and sustainable development.

Other awardees included Livinis Tsar Adzer, Victor Alonge, Chief Mrs. Bolaji Juliet Akinmulero, Dr. Carlos Sousa, Zelig Ifeanyi Okonmah, Jaruwan Vantana, Morenike Oluwaseun, Dr. Bastin Titus Anthony Raj, and Dr. Michael Kanthakaran.

The ceremony was anchored by Dr. Graziella Thake, UNIPGC Australia’s Secretary General, while Barr. Williams Chima of the UNIPGC Advisory Council on Human Rights and Judicial Cooperation officiated the investiture.

UNIPGC Global President and UN Permanent Representative, Amb. Dr. Jonathan Ojadah, urged the honorees to act as peace ambassadors and model leaders on the global stage. In his remarks, Kevin Uguru, a member of the German Parliament and Secretary General of UNIPGC Europe, announced that the next edition of the summit will take place in Germany in mid-2026.

During the summit, Sonko addressed a joint panel session where he emphasised inclusive governance and peace as foundations for sustainable development. “True leadership is not measured by titles or positions, but by the impact we make on humanity,” he said.

He added that leadership must be rooted in compassion, highlighting his belief that public service should directly touch lives.

Sonko dedicated the award to the resilience and aspirations of the Kenyan people, pledging to continue championing social transformation, supporting vulnerable communities, and promoting accountable governance.

“Let us invest in people, nurture compassion, and build a more peaceful and inclusive world,” he said.

The GLISPA summit, held annually, convenes leaders and experts to deliberate on governance, peace-building, and development.