Dr. Bibi Ameenah Firdaus Gurib-Fakim, the 6th President of the Republic of Mauritius, stands out as a distinguished biodiversity scientist and a groundbreaking leader. Her journey from a small village in Mauritius to becoming the first female President of her country is a testament to her resilience, dedication, and passion for science and empowerment.
Born on October 17, 1959, in Surinam, Mauritius, Dr. Gurib-Fakim pursued higher education in the United Kingdom, earning a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from the University of Surrey in 1983 and a Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry from the University of Exeter in 1987. Her academic achievements laid the foundation for an illustrious career focused on exploring the medicinal and nutritional properties of indigenous plants.
Upon returning to Mauritius, Dr. Gurib-Fakim joined the University of Mauritius, where she became a trailblazer in academia. In 2001, she made history as the first woman to hold a professorial chair in the Faculty of Science. She further served as the Dean of the Faculty of Science and Pro Vice-Chancellor from 2004 to 2010. Her contributions to biodiversity research include co-authoring the first African Herbal Pharmacopoeia and serving as a founding member of the Pan African Association of African Medicinal Plants, thereby preserving and promoting traditional knowledge on the global stage.
Dr. Gurib-Fakim’s appointment as the 6th President of Mauritius in June 2015 marked a historic milestone, as she became the country’s first female head of state. During her tenure, she championed scientific research, innovation, women’s empowerment, and environmental conservation. Her leadership emphasized the importance of sustainable development, particularly for island nations grappling with climate change.
Despite stepping down from the presidency in 2018, her legacy remains significant. Her groundbreaking work earned her prestigious accolades, including the L’Oréal-UNESCO Award for Women in Science in 2007 and the African Union Award for Women in Science in 2009. She also received honorary doctorates from renowned institutions, including Sorbonne Université in Paris.
A prolific author and speaker, Dr. Gurib-Fakim has published numerous scientific works and shared her expertise globally, advocating for the integration of traditional knowledge with modern science. She continues to inspire countless individuals, particularly women and young scientists, to pursue careers in STEM fields and leadership roles.
Married to Dr. Anwar Fakim and a mother of two, Dr. Gurib-Fakim’s journey exemplifies how science, education, and determination can drive national and global change. Her unwavering commitment to biodiversity conservation, gender equality, and innovation secures her place among the 100 Reputable Women of African Descent in 2025.
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