When consumers think about brands, they often think about products. But people and nations are brands too. In fact, some of the world’s most successful business and political leaders have clear personal brands- think of Professor Wangari Maathai, Nelson Mandela and Mahatma Gandhi. They had strong personal brands, which reflected their philosophies and beliefs and aligned strongly with their values. Their brands enhanced their leadership status in the society.

“The top ten Most Valuable African Nations are without a question among the most dynamic African nations at the forefront of re-inventing Africa’s image, reputation and competitiveness,” said Thebe Ikalafeng, founder and chairman of Brand Africa.

South Africa: Global economist Dambisa Moyo and nation branding guru Simon Anholt are among the 14 global thought leaders and decision makers scheduledBrand Africa, a new African initiative to drive the continent’s reputation, image and competitiveness, will be launched on Thursday 16 September 2010 at Johannesburg’s Sandton Convention Centre. for the inaugural Brand Africa Forum 2010.