7 Powerful African Women Leading The Way In Politics
African women are increasingly taking center stage, and driving transformative changes across the continent in politics. These remarkable leaders are going beyond breaking barriers and redefining what it means to lead with vision and purpose. Their stories are a testament to resilience, courage, and an unwavering commitment to justice and equality. From championing women’s rights and education to advancing economic reforms and environmental sustainability, these political women leaders are shaping the future of their nations and pushing Africa global. In this piece, we highlight their achievements and contributions, recognizing that their impact extends far beyond the borders of Africa.
Ngozi Okonjo Iweala
Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala is a distinguished global leader and the first woman and African to serve as the Director-General of the World Trade Organization (WTO). With over three decades of experience, she is an influential economist and international development expert. She was Chair of the Board of Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance from 2016 to 2020. As Nigeria’s Finance Minister, she implemented crucial economic reforms, stabilizing the economy and enhancing financial transparency.
Her exceptional negotiation skills led to the cancellation of $18 billion of Nigeria’s external debt. As Managing Director at the World Bank, she oversaw operations across Africa, South Asia, and Europe. Okonjo-Iweala has significantly contributed to global health and climate change, serving as an AU and WHO COVID-19 Special Envoy. Her accolades include being named Forbes African of the Year in 2020 and consistently ranking among the Top 100 Most Powerful Women in the World by Forbes.
Mariam Chabi-Talata
Mariam Chabi Talata is the current Vice President of Benin, making history as the country’s first female vice president after being elected in the 2021 presidential election. Her political journey began in 2001 when she joined the UDS party. From 2008 to 2015, she served as a city councilor in Parakou and as President of the Women’s Union of Elected City Councillors of the Alibori, Borgou, and Hills Departments. She was also a founding member of the Progressive Union party and participated in the 2019 legislative elections, becoming the first woman elected as the 1st Vice-President of Benin’s National Assembly. Known for her feminist stance, she advocates for legalizing abortion and improving women’s education.
Emma Theofelus
The Honourable Emma Inamutila Theofelus is a lawyer, Member of Parliament, and the Deputy Minister of Information and Communication Technology in Namibia. In Parliament, she has championed initiatives to improve the lives of women and girls, most notably moving a successful motion in 2021 to remove taxes on sanitary products in Namibia, which is currently being implemented. She focuses on improving government communication, fostering digital literacy, increasing internet access, and preparing Namibia for the 4th Industrial Revolution. Theofelus was the 2022 Laureate in the Individual Category of the United Nations Population Award and is a board member of the Leadership Council of Africa REACH. Recognized as one of the most influential African women by outlets like the BBC and African Leadership Magazine, she was nominated for the One Young World Politician of the Year Award in 2020 and 2021.
Samia Suluhu Hassan
President Samia Suluhu Hassan is the sixth President of the United Republic of Tanzania. She came into power in March 2021, following the death of President John Magufuli. She previously served as Vice President in 2015 and held roles such as Minister of State for Union Affairs and Minister in Zanzibar’s semi-autonomous government. As President, she appointed an expert committee to guide Tanzania’s COVID-19 response, leading to the resumed reporting of COVID-19 data to the WHO and launching a vaccination program in August 2021. Her government prioritizes public health protocols and actively engages with international partners. At COP 26 in Glasgow, President Samia highlighted Tanzania’s commitment to climate action. She emphasizes the private sector’s role in growth, focusing on removing barriers to investment. Her administration has also lifted restrictions on education for pregnant girls and young mothers, demonstrating a commitment to supporting girls and young women.
Ellen Johnson Sirleaf
Ellen Johnson Sirleaf served as the 24th president of Liberia from 2006 to 2018, becoming the first elected female head of state in Africa. She is renowned as a Nobel Peace Laureate for promoting peace, justice, and democratic rule. During her presidency, Sirleaf was instrumental in erasing Liberia’s debt and establishing the right to free, universal primary education. She ensured the country’s first peaceful, democratic transition of power in 73 years in January 2018. A global leader for women’s empowerment, she has amplified women’s and girls’ voices, increasing their representation in African public service. In 2018, she founded the Ellen Johnson Sirleaf Presidential Center for Women and Development, dedicated to advancing women’s political and social development and unleashing Africa’s untapped potential.
Millie Odhiambo
Millie Odhiambo is a prominent figure in Kenyan politics, and she is celebrated for her passionate advocacy for women’s rights and social justice. As a Member of Parliament, Odhiambo is dedicated to advancing women’s rights and promoting gender equality in political representation, education, and healthcare. In June 2024, she went viral with her “Be a bad girl like Millie” video which stood out to many as she advocated for women and Kenyan society. Her advocacy also focuses on combating gender-based violence and empowering marginalized communities. Known for her fearless approach, she is a vocal critic of corruption and impunity, championing accountability and transparency in governance. Her leadership and advocacy have earned her numerous awards and accolades. Through her resilience and determination, Millie Odhiambo continues to inspire young women and future leaders, striving for a more just and equitable society in Kenya.
Sahle-Work Zewde
Sahle-Work Zewde became the fifth and first female President of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia on October 25, 2018. Her career began in the Ministry of Education, later transitioning to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in 1988. She served as Ambassador to Senegal, with accreditation to several West African countries, and later as Ambassador to Djibouti and Permanent Representative to IGAD. Zewde was also Ambassador to France, Tunisia, and Morocco, and Permanent Representative to UNESCO.
Upon returning to Ethiopia, she became Permanent Representative to the African Union and Director General for African Affairs. In 2009, she joined the United Nations, serving as the first African woman Special Representative of the Secretary-General in the Central African Republic. In 2011, she became the first dedicated Director-General of the United Nations Office in Nairobi. In 2018, Secretary-General António Guterres appointed her as Special Representative to the African Union and Head of the United Nations Office to the African Union.
