Our Correspondent | Africa Guardian
While women across the globe continue to face systemic obstacles that hinder their ability to reach and sustain positions of power, a select group are breaking these barriers, making significant strides in business, entertainment, and politics. Forbes’ 2024 list of the World’s 100 Most Powerful Women celebrates these trailblazers, with five African women securing their spots and influencing global change through visionary leadership, innovation, and inspiration.
Judith Suminwa Tuluka
In June 2024, Judith Suminwa Tuluka made history as the first female prime minister of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Her remarkable journey began in the Ministry of the Budget, where she climbed the ranks to hold key positions, including Minister of Planning and Deputy Coordinator of the Presidential Strategic Watch Council. Appointed by President Félix Tshisekedi, Tuluka represents a powerful symbol of political progress and empowerment for women in Africa. She holds a master’s degree in applied economics from Université libre de Bruxelles.
Mpumi Madisa
Mpumi Madisa’s rise from humble beginnings in Mohlakeng, Gauteng, to becoming a trailblazing South African business leader is nothing short of inspiring. In 2020, Madisa made history as the first Black woman to lead a top-40 firm on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE) after joining Bidvest in 2003. She earned degrees in economics, finance, and mathematics from Wits University.
Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala
Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Nigeria’s esteemed economist with a Harvard degree, has made profound contributions to international development and finance over three decades. In 2021, she became the first African and female director-general of the World Trade Organization (WTO). Previously, Okonjo-Iweala held high-ranking roles at the World Bank and as Nigeria’s Finance Minister, where she led impactful global initiatives, such as the Vaccine Alliance and Gavi.
Samia Suluhu Hassan
Samia Suluhu Hassan made history as Tanzania’s first female president, taking office in March 2021 after the passing of President John Magufuli. Born in Zanzibar, Hassan’s political career spans various influential positions, including Vice President and Minister of State. With a master’s degree in community economic development, she advocates policies focused on unity and economic growth in Tanzania.
Mo Abudu
Nigerian media mogul Mo Abudu, founder of EbonyLife Media, has revolutionized African storytelling on the global stage. With her firm broadcasting in more than 49 countries, Abudu has secured landmark partnerships with giants like Netflix, Sony Pictures Television, and AMC Networks. EbonyLife became the first African media company to land a multi-title deal with Netflix. Through initiatives such as Mo Abudu Films, she continues to elevate underrepresented voices and redefine African cinema.
These women, alongside other influential leaders, continue to drive change, proving that African women are breaking barriers and shaping the future in remarkable ways.
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