ARISE News is poised to hold a significant event in Lagos for International Women’s Day 2026 on March 8, recognizing female leadership through the Africa Women of Impact Awards.
This event will honor 100 of Africa's most outstanding and impactful women, showcasing their contributions in governance, business, law, healthcare, technology, science, and the arts.
The list of recipients represents a diverse array of African talent, with strong participation from countries like Nigeria, South Africa, Kenya, Zimbabwe, Ethiopia, Mauritius, Sudan, Côte d’Ivoire, Niger, along with accomplished African women who have made their mark internationally.
These awards bring together women whose contributions have significantly influenced institutions, propelled businesses, and shaped policy on both the continent and the global stage.
In the business and finance sectors, recognized figures include Ibukun Awosika, the former Chairman of First Bank of Nigeria Plc; Halima Dangote, an Executive Director at Dangote Group; and economist Arunma Oteh from the Saïd Business School at the University of Oxford, highlighting the increasing presence of African women in international corporate environments.
The governance category features prominent names such as former Nigerian First Lady Aisha Buhari, Winnie Byanyima, Executive Director of UNAIDS (Uganda), and Helen Zille, a respected South African politician and activist, each showcasing their significant roles in the spheres of public policy and international relations.
In healthcare and scientific fields, esteemed individuals such as Prof. Bosede Afolabi from the University of Lagos College of Medicine and Dr. Iman Abuzeid, CEO of Incredible Health, will represent women's vital contributions to medical advancements and public health systems.
Additional leaders being recognized across diverse sectors such as energy, technology, and culture include Oritsemeyiwa Eyesan from the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission, filmmaker Kemi Adetiba, operatic soprano Pretty Yende from The Metropolitan Opera in South Africa, and Microsoft executive Pamela Maynard.
The awards will also highlight philanthropy and social enterprises by acknowledging leaders like Zouera Youssoufou, CEO of the Aliko Dangote Foundation, emphasizing a commitment to leadership that prioritizes social change alongside profit.
By assembling a varied cohort of women from different sectors and generations, the Africa Women of Impact Awards aim to project a narrative of progress within Africa, steered by female leadership. This event affirms the interconnection between sustainable development, inclusive growth, and the roles women play through their innovation and leadership.
As ARISE News reveals the 100 Women of Impact list, the awards will not only celebrate individual achievements but will also foster dialogue around representation, opportunities, and the need for systemic changes, positioning this recognition as a standard for celebrating female excellence across Africa.
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