The Director-General of the World Trade Organization, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, has been ranked as the most powerful woman in Africa on Forbes.
Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala is no stranger to breaking barriers. Prior to her role at the WTO, she served as Nigeria’s Finance Minister and later as the Coordinating Minister for the Economy. Her tenure marked a period of economic reform, resilience, and transparency, earning her accolades for steering Nigeria through complex financial challenges.
Beyond her national contributions, Okonjo-Iweala’s reputation transcended borders. She served as the Managing Director of the World Bank, where her efforts focused on addressing global economic disparities and promoting sustainable development. This global experience laid the foundation for her current role as the head of the WTO.
As the Director-General of the WTO, Okonjo-Iweala assumed office during a critical juncture. Her leadership is characterized by a commitment to revitalizing the multilateral trading system, fostering inclusivity, and addressing the economic fallout of the COVID-19 pandemic. Her approach has garnered praise for its pragmatism and emphasis on collaboration.
Forbes’ 20th annual ranking showcased a diverse array of influential figures, spanning CEOs, entertainers, politicians, philanthropists, and policymakers
In its 20th annual ranking released on Tuesday, Forbes showcased a diverse array of influential figures, spanning CEOs, entertainers, politicians, philanthropists, and policymakers.
According to the rankings, Ms. Okonjo-Iweala, a prominent Nigerian, is positioned at 87th place in the Most Powerful Women in the World list, surpassing Mpumi Madisa, a South African businesswoman, at 88th.
Joining this distinguished list are Tanzanian President Samia Hassan at the 93rd spot and Nigerian media mogul and philanthropist Mo Abudu at the 98th.
The most powerful woman in the world for 2023 was bestowed upon Ursula von der Leyen, the President of the European Commission, for impactful policy and budgetary decisions that wield significant influence, shaping the lives of 450 million people across Europe.
Christine Lagarde holds the second position as the European Central Bank President, steering Europe’s monetary policy during a period of elevated inflation.
Following closely is U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris in third place, with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni securing the fourth spot.
In the 2022 ranking, the 69-year-old secured number 91 as one of Forbes’s World’s 100 Most Powerful Women as a result of her continuous role in providing financial assistance and promoting global trade as the threat of a global recession rises.
Okonjo-Iweala is an economist and international development professional with more than 30 years of experience working in Asia, Africa, Europe, Latin America, and North America.
In March 2021, she became the first woman and the first African to serve as Director-General of the World Trade Organization.
Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala’s recognition as the most powerful woman in Africa by Forbes is a celebration of leadership, resilience, and global impact. Her journey from Nigeria’s Finance Minister to the pinnacle of the World Trade Organisation reflects a trajectory marked by dedication, vision, and a commitment to positive change. As she continues to navigate the complexities of global trade and diplomacy, Okonjo-Iweala stands as a beacon, illuminating the path for women leaders and advocating for a more inclusive and equitable world. Forbes’ acknowledgment underscores the transformative power of diversity and the profound impact of leaders who transcend borders and challenge the status quo.
