The 100 Reputable Women of African Descent is a prestigious recognition platform dedicated to honoring and celebrating women of African heritage who exemplify leadership, integrity, and character, while making meaningful contributions to their communities, industries, and the global society.
Following the success of the 2025 Listing, Distinguished women of African Descent remarkable leaders, innovators, and captains of industries continue to redefine excellence and leadership across the continent. These phenomenal women, recognized in the 100 Reputable Women of African Descent 2025 Listing, have not only exemplified integrity and vision in their respective fields but have also demonstrated their collective power for impact through transformative initiatives.
Here are some highlighted Profiles from 100 Reputable Women of African Descent 2025 Listing
1. Yetunde Oni — Nigeria
Managing Director & CEO of Union Bank of Nigeria, leading digital innovation, inclusive banking and organisational transformation.
2. Joyce Bawah Mogtari — Ghana
Governance and maritime-law specialist advocating for transparency, policy reform and women’s leadership in West Africa.
3. Chido Cleopatra Mpemba — Zimbabwe
African Union youth envoy and digital-policy leader driving inclusion, innovation and climate awareness for Africa’s next generation.
4. Heather Ibrahim-Leathers — Egypt / USA
Founder of the Global Fund for Widows; global advocate for economic justice and empowerment of widows worldwide.
5. Sanda Ojiambo — Kenya
Executive Director of the UN Global Compact, recognised for her leadership in sustainability and corporate accountability.
6. Susan Wakarura Kihika — Kenya
Governor and trailblazer in Kenyan politics advancing women’s representation and effective governance.
7. Mama Salma Kikwete — Tanzania
Former First Lady of Tanzania and Founder of WAMA, promoting girls’ education and maternal health initiatives.
8. Dr. Omotola Onaneye-Babajide — Nigeria
Environmental chemist, sustainability scholar, and ESG strategist empowering women in academia and renewable-energy research.
9. Dorothy Njemanze — Nigeria
Founder of the Dorothy Njemanze Foundation; a leading voice in gender-rights advocacy and survivor-centred reforms across West Africa.
10. Ibukun Awosika — Nigeria
Business icon and former Chairperson of First Bank of Nigeria, celebrated for leadership excellence and youth mentorship.
11. Lucy James Abagi — Uganda
Governance and public-sector reform leader noted for driving innovation and transparency in development management.
12. Maryam Salim — Africa (Regional)
Development strategist and gender-inclusion advocate contributing to Africa’s socio-economic transformation agenda.
13. Prof. Chiso Ndukwe-Okafor — Nigeria
Academic and tech-education champion advancing data-driven learning and women’s participation in digital innovation.
Nomination Guidelines
✔ Must have a proven record of leadership, social impact, or professional excellence
✔ Must exemplify integrity, resilience, and community service
How to Apply
Interested candidates or nominators should send applications to 📧 Top100@africawomensummit.org include name(s), Picture, a Short Professional Profile (150–200 words) and contact details of nominees
Deadline: Applications are open now, and early submissions are strongly encouraged.
Techinical Working Committee
100 Reutable Women of Africa Descent 2026
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