Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Director-General of the World Trade Organization (WTO), has been named among the 2024 Forbes 100 Most Powerful Women in the World. This marks the eighth time she has appeared on the prestigious list, an achievement she described as an honor she does not take for granted. She shared the news on her X (formerly Twitter) handle, expressing her gratitude and extending her congratulations to her fellow honorees, particularly the four African women who also made the list.
“Honored to be on the list of the 2024 Forbes 100 Most Powerful Women in the World, for the 8th time! This is an honor I do not take for granted. I wish to congratulate all my fellow women Honorees, in particular the 4 other African Women on the list. President @SuluhuSamia of Tanzania, H.E Prime Minister @SuminwaJudith of the Democratic Republic of Congo, Ms Mpumi Madisa CEO of Bidvest, and our very own @MoAbudu. Let’s hope for even more African Women next time!” she wrote.
Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala is an internationally renowned economist and development expert who became the first African and first woman to head the World Trade Organization in March 2021. Prior to this, she served two terms as Nigeria’s Minister of Finance and briefly as Minister of Foreign Affairs, making history as the first woman to hold both positions. During her tenure, she spearheaded significant economic reforms, including Nigeria’s debt relief negotiations with the Paris Club, saving the country billions of dollars.
Her extensive career spans decades at the World Bank, where she rose to the position of Managing Director. Dr. Okonjo-Iweala’s contributions to global economic policy and sustainable development have earned her numerous accolades, including recognition as one of TIME’s 100 Most Influential People and being named among Forbes’ 100 Most Powerful Women multiple times.
In her post, Dr. Okonjo-Iweala highlighted four other African women who joined her on the Forbes 100 Most Powerful Women list:
- President Samia Suluhu Hassan
- As the President of Tanzania, Samia Suluhu Hassan is the first woman to hold this position in the country’s history. Since assuming office in 2021, she has been instrumental in promoting economic reforms, strengthening international relations, and advocating for gender equality. Her leadership has marked a transformative era for Tanzania on the global stage.
- Prime Minister Sama Lukonde Kyenge (Judith Suminwa)
- Prime Minister Judith Suminwa of the Democratic Republic of Congo is another trailblazer on the list. She has been at the forefront of governance and policy-making in the DRC, emphasizing the importance of women’s empowerment and sustainable development in one of Africa’s most resource-rich nations.
- Ms. Mpumi Madisa
- Mpumi Madisa is the CEO of Bidvest Group, a leading South African services, trading, and distribution company. She made history as the first black woman to lead the company and has been recognized for her exceptional leadership and commitment to diversity and inclusion in corporate South Africa.
- Mo Abudu
- Mo Abudu is a media mogul and entrepreneur renowned for transforming Africa’s storytelling landscape. As the founder and CEO of EbonyLife Media, she has produced numerous groundbreaking films and television shows, showcasing African culture to a global audience. Her influence extends beyond the media to philanthropy and advocacy for women’s empowerment.
Dr. Okonjo-Iweala concluded her post with a hopeful message for greater representation of African women on future lists, reflecting her commitment to championing gender equality and highlighting the achievements of women across the continent.
The Forbes 100 Most Powerful Women list celebrates individuals who have made significant contributions to their fields and inspired change worldwide. Dr. Okonjo-Iweala’s inclusion, alongside these remarkable African leaders, underscores the growing influence of African women in global leadership and innovation.
