Ellen Johnson Sirleaf from Liberia

Ellen made history as Africa’s first elected female head of state when she became President of Liberia in 2006. Throughout her tenure, she prioritized gender equality and women’s empowerment, advocating for inclusive policies that uplifted marginalized communities.

Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie from Nigeria

Chimamanda is a renowned Nigerian author whose writing tackles issues of gender, race, and identity. Her powerful TED Talk, “We Should All Be Feminists,” has sparked important conversations about equality around the world.Through her writing and public speaking engagements, she has become a leading voice in the global conversation on feminism and inclusivity.

LeymahGboweefrom Liberia

Nobel Peace Prize laureate LeymahGbowee is renowned for her role in mobilizing women across religious and ethnic divides to end Liberia’s civil war. Through her activism and leadership, she continues to champion peacebuilding efforts and advocate for the inclusion of women in conflict resolution processes.

Yvonne Chaka Chaka from South Africa

Yvonne is a South African singer and humanitarian who uses her voice to advocate for social change. She’s been involved in various campaigns to promote education, healthcare, and HIV/AIDS awareness across Africa.

Fatou Bensouda from Gambia

Fatou is a Gambian lawyer who currently serves as the Chief Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC). She’s committed to seeking justice for victims of war crimes, genocide, and crimes against humanity, with a focus on gender-based crimes.

Winnie Byanyimafrom Uganda

Winnie is a Ugandan politician and activist who currently serves as the Executive Director of UNAIDS. She’s a vocal advocate for women’s rights, LGBTQ+ rights, and ending poverty and inequality globally.

Dr. Ngozi Okonjo- Iweala from Nigeria

Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala is the first woman to hold the position of Managing Director at the World Bank. In 2021, she made history as the first African and first woman to be appointed as the Director-General of the World Trade Organization (WTO). She tirelessly advocates for poverty alleviation, gender equality, and inclusive economic growth.

Thuli Madonsela from South Africa

Thuli is a South African advocate and former Public Protector of South Africa. She’s known for her fearless approach to fighting corruption and upholding the rule of law, earning her the nickname “South Africa’s Iron Lady.”

Maggy Barankitsefrom Burundi

Maggy is a Burundian humanitarian who founded Maison Shalom, a nonprofit organization that provides support to orphans and refugees affected by conflict in Burundi. She’s dedicated her life to promoting peace, reconciliation, and inclusion in her community.

Amina J Mohammed from Nigeria

Amina is a Nigerian diplomat who currently serves as the Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations. She’s been a leading voice in advocating for sustainable development, gender equality, and inclusive policies on the global stage.

Women like these continue to pave the way for a more inclusive and equitable future in Africa. As we celebrate their accomplishments, let us make sure that we support the efforts they are making to champion inclusion in the future.

SOURCES

10 POWERFUL 21ST CENTURY AFRICAN WOMEN BREAKING BARRIERS AND CHAMPIONING INCLUSION

https://africa.businessinsider.com/local/leaders/most-powerful-african-women-in-the-world-2023/07cmfzbhttps://www.globalcitizen.org/en/content/women-challenge-gender-stereotype-nigeria-feminism/