In Summary
- Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala became the first woman and the first African to lead the WTO, making history in the organization. Before becoming the WTO Director-General, Okonjo-Iweala worked at the World Bank for 25 years, rising to the position of Managing Director.
- Under Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus’s leadership, the WHO has made significant strides in global health, including accelerating progress against diseases like HIV/AIDS, malaria, and tuberculosis, responding to the COVID-19 pandemic, and pushing for universal health coverage.
- In a 2024 report, the United Nations disclosed that there are around 200 million people in the Americas now proudly identify themselves as being of African descent.
Deep Dive!!
On 9 September 2023, the African Union (AU) was admitted as a permanent member of the G20—this happened a few weeks after the BRICS association welcomed Egypt and Ethiopia as new members.
Experts say that Africa’s global recognition is not only due to its huge potential and economic growth but also to the achievements of Africans in global positions who make a difference with their office on the international stage.
Africans are making a global impact across various fields, from advocating for equitable vaccine distribution during the COVID-19 pandemic to championing climate justice and pushing for reforms in global trade regulations. They are also making strides in renewable energy, cultural collaborations, and economic growth, showcasing Africa’s potential on the world stage.
Today, there is a proud array of Africans making significant impacts on the global stage, holding pivotal positions across various international organizations. In this article, we have highlighted the top ten Africans whose leadership continues to shape global narratives.
Here are the top 10 Africans Making a Difference in Global Positions 2025. Check them out!
10. Wavel Ramkalawan—Seychelles: Ramkalawan is the Chairperson of, the Alliance of Small Island States (AOSIS), an intergovernmental organization of low-lying coastal and small island countries, advocating for sustainable development and environmental protection on global platforms. Under Ramkalawan’s leadership, AOSIS has amplified the concerns of small island nations regarding climate change, leading to more robust international agreements and increased funding for climate resilience.
9. Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka—South Africa: Phumzile is the former Executive Director, of UN Women and currently serves as the Chancellor, University of Johannesburg. The UN Women advocates for gender equality and women’s empowerment globally. During her tenure, Mlambo-Ngcuka has championed women’s rights, education, and economic empowerment, both within Africa and internationally.
8. Dr Ibrahim Assane Mayaki—Niger: Dr Mayaki is the CEO of the African Union Development Agency (AUDA-NEPAD), the organization implements projects aimed at enhancing Africa’s economic growth and sustainable development. Dr. Mayaki has been pivotal in promoting regional integration, infrastructure development, and agricultural transformation across Africa.
7. Kirsty Coventry—Zimbabwe: Coventry is an executive member and candidate for President of the International Olympic Committee (IOC). The IOC oversees the organization of the modern Olympic Games and promotes Olympism worldwide. As a former Olympic swimmer with seven medals and a former Minister for Sports, Coventry has advocated for athletes’ mental and physical health, emphasizing zero tolerance for corruption, doping, and unethical behaviour. Her candidacy for IOC President highlights her commitment to integrity in sports.
6. Dr Akinwumi Adesina—Nigeria: Dr Adesina is the President of the African Development Bank (AfDB). The AfDB aims to promote sustainable economic growth and reduce poverty in Africa. Under Adesina’s leadership, the AfDB has launched initiatives to boost agriculture, infrastructure, and energy sectors, fostering economic development across the continent.
5. Tidjane Thiam—Ivory Coast: Thiam is a Board Member of Kering; African Union Special Envoy on COVID-19. Kering is a global luxury group managing renowned fashion brands; the African Union addresses continental issues and promotes unity. Thiam’s financial expertise has guided major corporations, and his role as AU Special Envoy has been crucial in mobilizing resources to combat the pandemic in Africa.
4. Dr. Vera Songwe—Cameroon: Songwe is the Under-Secretary-General, United Nations; Executive Secretary, Economic Commission for Africa (ECA). The ECA promotes the economic and social development of African countries, fostering intra-regional integration and international cooperation. Dr. Songwe has advocated for sustainable development, economic diversification, and digital transformation across Africa, influencing policy and investment decisions.
3. Kemi Badenoch—Nigeria: Badenoch is the Leader of the Conservative Party in the UK. The Conservative Party is one of the major political parties in the UK, shaping national policies and governance. Badenoch’s leadership marks a historic moment as the first black woman to lead a major UK political party, influencing policies on social justice, economic reform, and international relations.
2. Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala—Nigeria: Dr Okonjo-Iweala is the Director-General of the World Trade Organization (WTO). The WTO deals with global rules of trade between nations, ensuring that trade flows smoothly, predictably, and freely. As the first African and first woman to lead the WTO, Dr. Okonjo-Iweala has focused on reforming trade rules, addressing global supply chain issues, and promoting fair trade practices to benefit developing nations.
1. Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus—Ethiopia: Dr Ghebreyesus is the Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO). The WHO directs and coordinates international health within the United Nations system, addressing global health matters, setting norms and standards, and providing leadership on critical health issues. Dr. Tedros has been instrumental in navigating global health challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic, and Ebola outbreaks, and strengthening health systems worldwide. His leadership has emphasized universal health coverage and robust emergency responses.
