Knighthood remains one of the highest honours that can be awarded by the British monarch. It is typically reserved for individuals whose work has made a significant contribution to public life, whether through literature, sport, science, philanthropy, religion, business, or the arts.
Since King Charles III ascended the throne following the death of Queen Elizabeth II in September 2022, several Africans and people of African heritage have joined the ranks of those recognised for outstanding achievements and service.
These people are from different continents and professions. Some built global reputations through literature and filmmaking. Others transformed sport, philanthropy, religion, and entertainment. The impact of their work earned them the highest level of the British honours system. 
Here are six Africans and people of African heritage who have received knighthoods under King Charles III.
1. Ben Okri -Nigeria
Nigeria born author Ben Okri received a knighthood on King Charles III’s 2023 Birthday Honours for services to literature.
For more than four decades, Okri has been one of Africa’s most influential literary voices. He is best known for ‘The Famished Road‘, a Booker Prize-winning novel that brought international attention to his unique blend of African folklore, spirituality and politics.
His work inspired generations of writers and helped establish Nigerian literature as a major force on the global stage. The honour recognised not just a single book but a lifetime dedicated to storytelling.
2. John Akomfrah – Ghana
Ghana born filmmaker, artist, and writer John Akomfrah was knighted in 2023 for services to the arts.
Akomfrah’s documentaries and visual art installations have examined migration, race, memory, colonial history, and identity for decades. Leading museums and galleries worldwide have displayed his work, including exhibitions representing Britain at the Venice Biennale.
His knighthood reflected the growing global influence of African-born creatives within contemporary art and culture.
3. Mo Ibrahim – Sudan
Sudanese-born businessman and philanthropist Mo Ibrahim received a knighthood through his appointment as Knight Commander of the Order of St Michael and St George.
After building a successful telecommunications business, Ibrahim turned much of his attention to governance and leadership across Africa. Through the Mo Ibrahim Foundation, he established one of the continent’s most respected governance initiatives and created the Ibrahim Prize, which rewards exceptional democratic leadership by former African heads of state.
His honour recognised both his business achievements and his contributions to governance advocacy across Africa.
4. Ephraim Mirvis – South Africa
South African-born Ephraim Mirvis, who has served as Chief Rabbi of the United Kingdom and Commonwealth since 2013, was knighted in recognition of his contributions to religious and public life.
Throughout his tenure, Mirvis has played a visible role in promoting interfaith dialogue, community engagement, education, and social cohesion. His influence has extended beyond the Jewish community into national conversations on faith and public service.
5. Billy Boston – Sierra Leone
Rugby league icon Billy Boston became the first player in the sport’s history to receive a knighthood.
Born in Wales to a Sierra Leonean father, Boston enjoyed a remarkable career that saw him score more than 500 tries and become one of rugby league’s greatest players.
Beyond his sporting achievements, he also broke racial barriers during a period when opportunities for Black athletes were far more limited.
Many viewed the honour as long-overdue recognition for both his sporting legacy and his role as a pioneer.
6. Idris Elba – Ghana and Sierra Leone
Actor, producer, and philanthropist Idris Elba became one of the latest people of African heritage to receive a knighthood under King Charles III.
He is known internationally for performances in productions such as Luther, The Wire, and Beasts of No Nation; Elba has built a career that extends beyond acting. He has also worked on initiatives supporting young people and campaigns aimed at tackling knife crime and youth violence.
With roots in both Ghana and Sierra Leone, Elba’s recognition reflected the impact of a career that has influenced film, television, and social advocacy.
These six honourees represent the broad reach of African talent and their influence across literature, religion, business, sport, film, and the arts. Their knighthoods acknowledge achievements built over decades and the growing presence of Africans.
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