Looking for African women in presidential politics?

Looking for African women in presidential politics?

Takeaway:

• African women in presidential politics can serve as powerful role models
• African women are underrepresented in presidential politics
• African women face a unique set of challenges in presidential politics, including gender-based violence, cultural biases, and socio-economic barriers.

Uncover the top 10 African women in presidential politics

Could it be possible that a woman can be Involved in politics in Africa? Are women allowed to be on political positions? 

The world of politics has traditionally been dominated by men, but in recent years, women have made significant strides in breaking through the glass ceiling and reaching the highest echelons of political power. 

 In Africa, where gender inequality is still a significant issue, a number of trailblazing women have risen to the top, serving as heads of state or government in their respective countries. In this article, we will highlight the top 10 African women in presidential politics, who have made history and inspired others to follow in their footsteps.

1.Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, Liberia

Ellen Johnson Sirleaf is a name that is synonymous with history-making and trailblazing in the world of African politics. Born in Monrovia, Liberia in 1938, Sirleaf went on to become the first woman to be elected as a head of state in Africa. She served as the President of Liberia from 2006 to 2018 and made significant contributions to the country’s economic and social development, as well as promoting women’s rights.

Sirleaf’s political career began in the 1970s, when she worked as a senior official in the Liberian government. However, she was forced to flee the country in 1980 after a military coup, and spent the next 12 years in exile, during which time she worked for various international organizations, including the United Nations.

In 1997, Sirleaf returned to Liberia and ran for president, but was unsuccessful in her bid. She ran again in 2005 and won in a run-off election, becoming the first woman to be elected as a head of state in Africa. During her presidency, Sirleaf worked to rebuild the country’s infrastructure, attract foreign investment, and promote economic growth. She also implemented policies aimed at improving access to education and healthcare, as well as promoting women’s rights and gender equality.

Sirleaf’s efforts did not go unnoticed. In 2011, she was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for her role in promoting women’s rights and economic development in Liberia. The Nobel committee cited her “non-violent struggle for the safety of women and for women’s rights to full participation in peace-building work”.

Sirleaf’s legacy extends beyond Liberia. She is widely regarded as a role model for women in Africa and around the world, and has inspired many other women to pursue careers in politics and leadership. She has also been recognized for her contributions to global development and has received numerous awards and honors, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom from the United States.

Today, Ellen Johnson Sirleaf continues to be an influential figure in Liberian politics and is actively involved in promoting peace and development in the country. Her legacy as a trailblazer and champion for women’s rights will continue to inspire generations to come.

2.Sahle-Work Zewde, Ethiopia

Sahle-Work Zewde is a name that has become synonymous with progress and leadership in Ethiopia. In 2018, she made history when she became the first woman to be appointed as the President of Ethiopia, breaking through the traditional gender barriers that have long been entrenched in African politics. Her appointment was a sign of the changing times in Ethiopia and the continent as a whole, and an inspiration to women everywhere who are fighting for equal rights and representation in politics.

Early Life and Education

Sahle-Work Zewde was born in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, in 1950. She attended the French Lycée Guebre-Mariam, and later obtained her degree in Natural Sciences from the University of Montpellier in France. She went on to complete her postgraduate studies in Gender and Development at the Institute of Social Studies in The Hague, Netherlands.

Career in Diplomacy

Sahle-Work Zewde began her career in diplomacy in the 1980s, serving as Ethiopia’s ambassador to various countries, including Senegal, Djibouti, and France. She also served as the Permanent Representative of Ethiopia to the African Union and the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA).

In 2011, Sahle-Work Zewde was appointed as the Director-General of the United Nations Office at Nairobi (UNON), becoming the first woman to hold the position. During her tenure, she oversaw the implementation of a number of initiatives aimed at promoting sustainable development and environmental conservation in Africa.

Presidency

In October 2018, Sahle-Work Zewde was appointed as the President of Ethiopia by the country’s parliament. Her appointment was seen as a significant step forward for women in Ethiopian politics, and a reflection of the country’s commitment to promoting gender equality and inclusivity.

Since assuming office, Sahle-Work Zewde has been a strong advocate for women’s rights and empowerment, and has spoken out against gender-based violence and discrimination. She has also been a vocal proponent of peace and reconciliation in Ethiopia, and has worked to promote dialogue and understanding among the country’s various ethnic and political groups.

Sahle-Work Zewde is a shining example of a strong, visionary leader who has broken through traditional barriers to achieve success in the world of politics. Her appointment as the first female President of Ethiopia was a historic moment for the country and the continent, and a testament to the power of women’s leadership and representation. As Ethiopia and the rest of Africa continue to push for progress and development, Sahle-Work Zewde’s legacy will serve as an inspiration to future generations of women leaders.

3.Joyce Banda, Malawi

Joyce Banda is a prominent African woman in politics, who has made significant contributions to promoting gender equality and empowering women in Malawi and across the African continent. She served as the President of Malawi from 2012 to 2014, becoming the first woman to hold the position in the country.

Banda was born in Malemia, a small village in southern Malawi, in 1950. She grew up in poverty and faced numerous challenges in her early life, including losing both her parents at a young age. Despite these challenges, Banda was determined to succeed and pursued her education, earning a degree in early childhood education from the Columbus College in the United States.

Banda began her career in politics in the 1990s, when she founded the National Association of Business Women in Malawi, an organization that aimed to promote the economic empowerment of women in the country. She later served as a member of parliament and held various ministerial positions in the government, including Minister of Gender and Community Services.

In 2012, Banda was sworn in as the President of Malawi, following the sudden death of her predecessor, Bingu wa Mutharika. She inherited a country that was facing numerous challenges, including economic instability and high levels of poverty. However, Banda was determined to make a difference and implemented a number of policies aimed at promoting economic growth and social development.

One of Banda’s key achievements as President was the establishment of the Presidential Initiative on Maternal Health and Safe Motherhood, which aimed to reduce maternal mortality rates in the country. She also introduced a number of measures to promote gender equality, including a law that criminalized child marriage in Malawi.

Despite facing criticism from some quarters, Banda remained committed to promoting democracy and good governance in Malawi. She was also a strong advocate for women’s rights and empowerment, and played a key role in promoting gender equality across the African continent.

Today, Banda continues to be a prominent voice on issues of women’s rights and political leadership in Africa. She has received numerous awards and honors for her contributions to promoting gender equality and social development, including the International Women of Courage Award from the United States Department of State.

Joyce Banda is a remarkable African woman who has made significant contributions to promoting gender equality and empowering women in Malawi and beyond. Her achievements as President of Malawi and as a prominent advocate for women’s rights have inspired countless others to follow in her footsteps and work towards a more just and equitable world.

4.Ameenah Gurib-Fakim, Mauritius

Ameenah Gurib-Fakim is a scientist, biologist, and the first woman to serve as the President of Mauritius. Born on October 17, 1959, in the small village of Surinam, Gurib-Fakim went on to earn a PhD in organic chemistry from the University of Exeter in the United Kingdom. Throughout her career, she has been a vocal advocate for science and technology, and has worked to promote sustainable development in Africa and beyond.

In 2015, Gurib-Fakim was appointed as the President of Mauritius, becoming the first woman to hold the position in the country’s history. During her tenure, she focused on promoting economic growth, strengthening the country’s education system, and addressing issues related to climate change and environmental sustainability.

One of Gurib-Fakim’s most significant accomplishments as President was her work to promote innovation and entrepreneurship in Mauritius. She launched several initiatives aimed at supporting startups and small businesses, and worked to create a more favorable environment for investment and economic growth. Under her leadership, Mauritius was ranked as the most competitive economy in Sub-Saharan Africa by the World Economic Forum.

Gurib-Fakim also prioritized education during her time as President, recognizing that a strong education system is key to promoting economic development and improving people’s lives. She launched several programs aimed at improving access to education, especially for women and girls, and worked to strengthen the quality of education across the country.

Beyond her work in politics, Gurib-Fakim has made significant contributions to the field of science and technology. She is the founder of the Centre for Phytotherapy Research, which conducts research on the medicinal properties of plants found in Mauritius and other African countries. She has also served as the Chair of the International Council for Scientific Unions, and has been a vocal advocate for women’s rights and gender equality.

Gurib-Fakim’s achievements as a scientist, entrepreneur, and politician have made her a role model for women in Mauritius and beyond. She has shown that women can excel in traditionally male-dominated fields, and that they have an important role to play in shaping the future of their countries and the world.

Ameenah Gurib-Fakim is a trailblazer and an inspiration to women in politics, science, and entrepreneurship. Her work as the President of Mauritius has had a significant impact on the country’s economy, education system, and environmental sustainability. Her leadership and advocacy for innovation, education, and gender equality have helped to pave the way for future generations of women leaders in Africa and beyond.

5.Catherine Samba-Panza, Central African Republic

Catherine Samba-Panza is a prominent figure in Central African Republic politics, known for breaking barriers and paving the way for women in her country. She made history when she became the first woman to hold the position of interim President of the Central African Republic from 2014 to 2016, during a tumultuous period of political crisis.

Early Life and Education

Catherine Samba-Panza was born on June 26, 1954, in Fort Lamy, Chad, to a Central African mother and Chadian father. She grew up in Bangui, the capital of Central African Republic, and attended school in both Bangui and Brazzaville, Congo. She later pursued her studies in France, where she obtained a degree in commercial law.

Political Career

Catherine Samba-Panza’s political career began in 2003, when she was appointed as the Mayor of Bangui, becoming the first woman to hold the position in the country’s history. She held this position until 2013, during which time she implemented a number of projects aimed at improving the lives of Bangui residents, including the construction of roads, schools, and healthcare centers.

In 2013, the Central African Republic was plunged into a political crisis, marked by widespread violence and instability. The situation deteriorated to the point where then-President Michel Djotodia was forced to step down in early 2014, and an interim government was established to guide the country towards a democratic election.

Catherine Samba-Panza was appointed as the interim President of the Central African Republic on January 23, 2014, becoming the first woman to hold the position. She was widely seen as a unifying figure, and her appointment was welcomed by both the international community and the people of Central African Republic.

During her tenure as interim President, Catherine Samba-Panza played a key role in promoting peace and reconciliation in the country. She worked to restore stability and security, and implemented a number of policies aimed at promoting national unity and rebuilding the country’s infrastructure. Her efforts earned her widespread praise and admiration, both at home and abroad.

Legacy and Impact

Catherine Samba-Panza’s impact on Central African Republic politics cannot be overstated. Her appointment as interim President was a historic moment, not only for the country but for women in politics across the continent. Her leadership during a period of political turmoil and violence inspired many, and her commitment to promoting peace and reconciliation set an example for leaders around the world.

Today, Catherine Samba-Panza continues to be involved in politics and is actively engaged in promoting peace and reconciliation in Central African Republic. She remains an inspiration to women in her country and beyond, and her legacy as a trailblazer in African politics will be remembered for years to come.

Catherine Samba-Panza’s story is a testament to the power of leadership and perseverance. As the first woman to hold the position of interim President of the Central African Republic, she broke barriers and paved the way for other women to follow in her footsteps. Her commitment to promoting peace and unity serves as a reminder of the importance of leadership in times of crisis, and her legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.

6.Fatoumata Tambajang, Gambia

Fatoumata Tambajang made history in The Gambia in 2017 when she was appointed as the country’s first-ever female Vice-President. Her appointment came after years of activism in the country, where she had been a leading voice for women’s rights and democracy.

Early Life and Career

Fatoumata Tambajang was born on August 22, 1949, in Basse, a town in the Upper River Division of The Gambia. She attended school in the capital city, Banjul, before going on to study in the United Kingdom and the United States.

After completing her studies, Tambajang returned to The Gambia and worked as a social worker and advocate for women’s rights. She founded a number of organizations focused on issues such as gender-based violence, female genital mutilation, and economic empowerment for women.

Political Career

Tambajang’s political career began in the early 2000s when she was appointed as the Minister of Health and Social Welfare under President Yahya Jammeh. She served in this role until 2007 when she resigned in protest against the government’s poor handling of the healthcare system.

After leaving government, Tambajang continued to be a vocal advocate for democracy and human rights in The Gambia. She played a key role in the formation of the opposition coalition that eventually defeated President Jammeh in the 2016 presidential election.

In 2017, newly-elected President Adama Barrow appointed Tambajang as his Vice-President, making her the first woman to hold the position in the country’s history. Her appointment was widely celebrated by women’s rights activists in The Gambia and beyond.

Legacy and Impact

Fatoumata Tambajang’s appointment as Vice-President was a significant milestone for women in The Gambia and the broader African continent. It represented a step forward in the fight for gender equality and women’s representation in political leadership positions.

Tambajang’s legacy extends beyond her time in office. She has inspired a new generation of young women in The Gambia to become politically engaged and work towards a more inclusive and democratic society.

Fatoumata Tambajang is a trailblazer in the world of African politics. Her lifelong dedication to women’s rights and democracy has made her a role model for women across the continent. Her appointment as Vice-President of The Gambia was a historic moment that will be remembered for years to come.

7.Catherine M. Sandoval, Liberia

Catherine M. Sandoval made history in Liberia as the first woman to hold the position of interim President. She served as the President of Liberia from 2018 to 2019, following the resignation of President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf. Her brief tenure as President was marked by efforts to promote economic development and social justice in the country.

Sandoval is a lawyer and professor who has worked in the field of telecommunications law and policy for many years. She served as a Commissioner on the California Public Utilities Commission from 2011 to 2017, where she was known for her efforts to promote access to affordable broadband and to protect the rights of consumers. Prior to that, she worked as an attorney in private practice and as a law professor at Santa Clara University.

In addition to her work in telecommunications law and policy, Sandoval has been involved in a number of other issues related to social justice and human rights. She has been a strong advocate for immigrant rights and has worked to promote the inclusion of women and minorities in the legal profession.

Sandoval’s appointment as interim President of Liberia was a significant milestone for women in African politics. It demonstrated that women are capable of leading countries and making important decisions that affect the lives of millions of people. It also served as an inspiration to other women who aspire to leadership roles in their own countries.

Despite the progress that has been made in recent years, women still face significant obstacles in African politics. Women are often underrepresented in political parties and in elected positions, and they are frequently subject to discrimination and harassment. However, women like Sandoval have shown that it is possible for women to break through these barriers and make a difference in their countries and in the world.

Catherine M. Sandoval is a trailblazer in African politics who has made history as the first woman to serve as interim President of Liberia. Her work as a lawyer, professor, and advocate for social justice has inspired others to follow in her footsteps and has demonstrated that women are capable of leading their countries and making a difference in the world.

8.Sylvie Kinigi, Burundi

Politics has traditionally been a male-dominated field, with women struggling to attain positions of power and influence. However, there are a few African women who have broken through the barriers and shattered the glass ceiling in their countries. Sylvie Kinigi, from Burundi, and Catherine Sandoval and Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, both from Liberia, are examples of such women who have made significant strides in African politics.

Sylvie Kinigi, the first woman prime minister of Burundi, served in that role from 1993 to 1994 during a period of political instability in the country. She rose to the top after a long career in the Burundian civil service, where she held various positions in different ministries. Kinigi’s tenure as prime minister was notable for her efforts to promote peace and reconciliation, especially between the Hutu and Tutsi ethnic groups, who were engaged in a protracted civil war.

Kinigi is also known for her commitment to advancing women’s rights and empowering women in Burundi. During her time in office, she initiated policies aimed at promoting gender equality and reducing discrimination against women. Kinigi’s legacy as a trailblazer in Burundian politics continues to inspire women to aspire to leadership positions in the country.

Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, Liberia’s first female president, served in that role from 2006 to 2018. Her tenure as president was marked by her efforts to rebuild Liberia after years of civil war and to promote economic development and good governance. Sirleaf’s achievements as a leader earned her international acclaim, including the Nobel Peace Prize in 2011.

Sirleaf is also known for her commitment to promoting women’s rights and empowerment. During her presidency, she championed policies aimed at reducing gender discrimination and improving access to education and healthcare for women and girls. Sirleaf’s leadership paved the way for other women to aspire to political office in Liberia and across Africa.

Catherine Sandoval, Liberia’s first female interim president, served in that role from 2018 to 2019, following the resignation of President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf. Prior to her appointment, Sandoval had a long and distinguished career in public service, serving in various capacities in the Liberian government, including as Minister of State for Presidential Affairs.

Sandoval’s tenure as interim president was marked by her efforts to maintain stability and continuity in Liberia’s political system, following Sirleaf’s departure. She also continued Sirleaf’s legacy of promoting gender equality and women’s rights, through the implementation of policies aimed at reducing gender discrimination and improving access to education and healthcare for women and girls.

Sylvie Kinigi, Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, and Catherine Sandoval are examples of African women who have made significant contributions to politics and society in their respective countries. Through their leadership and commitment to promoting gender equality and women’s rights, they have shattered the glass ceiling and paved the way for other women to follow in their footsteps.

9.Maria do Carmo Silveira, São Tomé and Príncipe

Maria do Carmo Silveira, also known as “Mamãé” Silveira, is a prominent political figure in the island nation of São Tomé and Príncipe. She made history as the first woman to serve as Acting President of the country in 2018-2019.

Silveira was born on August 4, 1957, on the island of São Tomé. She earned a degree in law from the University of Lisbon in Portugal and later became a prominent lawyer and human rights advocate in her home country. She also served as a member of the National Assembly of São Tomé and Príncipe for many years, representing the island of São Tomé.

In June 2018, Silveira was appointed as Acting President of São Tomé and Príncipe, following the resignation of President Evaristo Carvalho due to health reasons. During her tenure, she focused on promoting economic development, social welfare, and environmental sustainability. She also oversaw the country’s preparations for the legislative elections in October 2018.

Silveira’s appointment as Acting President was a historic moment for women in African politics. It signaled the growing recognition of women’s leadership abilities and their role in shaping the future of the continent. Silveira has been a vocal advocate for women’s rights and gender equality throughout her career, and her appointment as Acting President was a significant step forward in this regard.

Despite facing many challenges during her tenure as Acting President, including political instability and economic hardships, Silveira remained committed to promoting the interests of her country and its people. She continues to be a respected figure in São Tomé and Príncipe and an inspiration to many young women who aspire to follow in her footsteps.

Maria do Carmo Silveira is one of the top African women in presidential politics, having made history as the first woman to serve as Acting President of São Tomé and Príncipe. Her leadership and advocacy for women’s rights have inspired many across the continent, and she continues to be a role model for women in politics today.

These women have paved the way for future generations of African women in politics. Despite facing numerous challenges, they have demonstrated resilience, strength, and determination in their leadership roles. As more women continue to break barriers in African politics, it is crucial to acknowledge and celebrate their contributions to their respective countries and the continent as a whole.