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10 Female Tech Founders To Watch In Africa

 
 

by Mfonobong Nsehe , CONTRIBUTORI chronicle Africa's success stories and track its richest people.
 

In Africa’s burgeoning, male-dominated tech scene, women remain largely underrepresented. Yet there is a tiny handful of incredible women who are launching and building successful, innovative tech companies that are upending industries, setting new standards and earning their place at the cool table. These women create and innovate, exploiting ideas, products and services to produce dynamic businesses.

I spoke to a few African tech entrepreneurs and together, we hand-picked 10 of the brightest female tech founders in Africa.

Rebecca Enonchong, Cameroonian

Founder, AppsTech

Enonchong, a Cameroonian national, is the founder and CEO of AppsTech, a Bethesda, Maryland-based global provider of enterprise application solutions. AppsTech, which was founded in 1999 now has clients in more than 40 countries on 3 continents. The company, an Oracle ORCL -0.92% Platinum partner, offers a diverse range of enterprise software products and services including implementation, training and application management services for large and medium-sized companies. Enonchong also serves as an advisor/mentor to several African tech startups and is also the founder the Africa Technology Forum, a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting technology in Africa.

 

Rebecca Enonchong

 

Jamila Abass, Linda Kwamboka and Susan Oguya, Kenyan

Co-founders, MFarm

Abass, Kwamboka and Oguya are the founders of MFarm, a mobile software solution that connects Kenyan farmers with farm produce consumers in urban and export markets viaSMS . MFarm, which was founded in 2010 offers agricultural producers and buyers with the most recent retail price information about products and operates a virtual marketplace whereby consumers can buy their farm products directly from manufacturers while farmers can find buyers for their produce. MFarm also allows consumers to compare prices from different farmers and bid for a small fee. The company has received more than $230,000 in funding from UK-based charity, Tech For Trade and is working towards profitability.

 

Judith Owigar, Kenyan

Co-founder, JuaKali

Owigar, one of Kenya’s most popular female tech leaders, is the founder of JuaKali, an online and mobile directory for Kenya’s skilled blue-collar workers. JuaKali which was founded in 2012 and is based in Nairobi connects service providers from the informal sector with institutional and individual clients. The service allows workers to create an online profile showing their expertise. The service can be accessed via web and mobile. Owigar is also the founder of Akirachix, an association that aims to inspire and develop young women in technology through a mix of networking, training and mentoring programs.

Anne Amuzu, Ghanaian

Co-founder, Nandimobile

Amuzu, a graduate of Ghana’s Meltwater Entrepreneurial School of Technology (MEST) is a co-founder of Nandimobile, a company that develops software that enables companies to deliver customer support and information services through SMS. Amuzu co-founded the company in 2010 and it has more than 20 corporate clients in Ghana.

Barbara Mallison, South African

Co-founder, Obami

Mallinson is the co-founder of Obami, a South African-based social e-learning platform used by schools and organizations in Africa, Europe and America. Obami, which was founded in 2007, connects distinct parties within the education space - teachers, learners, NGOs and government -- and enables them share educational resources and also providing an assessment module to improve learners’ participation and performance. Obami is accessible via web and mobile. 

Clarisse Iribagize, Rwandan

Founder, HeHe Ltd 

Iribagize is the founder of HeHe Limited, a Kigali-based mobile technologies company that develops ways for businesses to reach their customers and audiences in a timely and affordable manner. Among other things, HeHe builds custom mobile applications for businesses, provides 24/7 online and offline support and cloud storage services. Iribagize founded the company in 2010 after winning a $50,000 grant from Inspire Africa, a Rwandan TV entrepreneurial contest. HeHe's clientele now includes African mobile telecoms giant MTN, the Praekelt Foundation and government agencies in Rwanda.

 

Annette Muller, South African

Founder, DotNxt

Muller is the founder of Cape Town-based DotNxt, a company that creates, develops and delivers software, mobile, social and other digital development projects for South African companies looking for more innovative and customer-centric ways to engage with their clientele. DotNxt, which was founded in 2011, has more than 20 corporate clients including some of South Africa’s largest companies such as Nedbank, Primedia and Graham Beck.

 

Nkemdilim Uwaje Begho, Nigerian

Founder, Future Software Resources

Begho founded Future Software Resources Ltd, a website design & web-solution provider located in Lagos, Nigeria in 2008. The company also provides online marketing, Search Engine Optimization (SEO), content management system development, online recruitment and IT consultancy services to more than 25 small and large Nigerian businesses and government agencies.

 

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10 Fierce Women in African Entertainment

By |Entertainment, Lists, Music, Spotlight, VIDEO, Women's Spotlight

Africa’s entertainment industry has caught the attention of the world with its rich culture and original stories and music. Many entertainers from the continent have rose to prominence and popularity in recent years, showcasing Africa as a cultural hub to be reckoned with.

There are so many talented young Africans in the entertainment industry. We simply can’t name them all, so we’ve highlighted 10 of the fiercest female Africans in entertainment who are making their mark in Africa and abroad.

 

Tolulope ‘Toolz’ Oniru

Nigeria’s Tolulope ‘Toolz’ Oniru is a successful businesswoman in media who was almost lost to the medical field, but realized that it wasn’t for her after a year of studying chemistry. She then changed course to study business and communications at the University of Westminster. Tools then went on to work in sales for about eight months before landing a job that would spark her passion for entertainment at MTV Networks Europe.

She later moved to the Walt Disney Motion Pictures Group, but her thirst for a new challenge and adventure led her back to her home country of Nigeria, and she moved to Lagos in mid-2008. While there, someone she knew told her go for auditions at one of Nigeria’s top urban radio stations called The Beat 99.9FM. She nailed the audition and was given a weekly slot. She quickly moved up the ranks and now hosts her own radio show called ‘The Midday Show with Toolz’, and is considered to be one of Nigeria’s most popular media personalities.

Outside of her radio work, Toolz also contributes to the MTV Base Official Naija Top 10 show and twice served as a judge for the Channel O Music Video Awards.

She has also won numerous awards, notably ‘Radio Presenter of the Year’ from the Nigerian Broadcasters Awards in 2010, and ‘Media Personality of the Year’ from the Nigerian Entertainment Awards.

 
 
Tolulope ‘Toolz’ Oniru posing while holding an umbrella, Nigeria, Africa
 
 

Joselyn Dumas

Joselyn Canfor Dumas is a Ghanaian entertainment powerhouse who rose to prominence after being featured in a film titled Perfect Picture and being headhunted by one of Ghana’s biggest television networks to host their first in-house flagship talk show titled The One Show, which aired from 2010 to 2014. Joselyn currently hosts her own popular TV talk show At Home With Joselyn Dumas, where she interviews celebrities in the comfort of her home.

She has had a successful film career, with notable movies such as Adams Apples (which landed her a nomination for ‘Best Actress in a lead role’ alongside Hollywood Actress Kimberly Elise at the 2011 Ghana Movie Awards), Love or Something Like That (co-produced by her production company, Virgo Sun Company Limited), A Northern Affair and a series titled Lekki Wives.

Joselyn also co-produced one of Ghana’s most prestigious beauty pageants, Miss Malaika Ghana, from 2008 to 2010.

Her passion for giving back to society led to the creation of The Joselyn Canfor-Dumas Foundation, which addresses the needs of vulnerable children in Ghana.

She has won numerous awards, including ‘Best Instagram Page’ at the 2015 Blog Ghana Awards, ‘Best Actress’ at the 2015 GN Bank Awards and ‘Outstanding Personality in Creative Entrepreneurship’ at the 2014 All Africa Media Networks.

 
 
Joselyn Dumas smiling for a photoshoot, Ghana, Africa
 
 

Omotola Jalade Ekeinde

Dubbed as the “Queen of Nollywood”, Omotola Ekeinde is one of the most successful actresses to come out of Nigeria’s film industry, with about 300 films under her belt. Omotola was also named as one of the ‘Top 100 Influential People in the World’ by Time Magazine.

Omotola started working as a model at the age of 15 when when she lost her father and had to support her family. Two years later she made her film debut with a lead role in the movie ‘Venom of Justice’. Her performance as the lead character in the popular movie ‘Mortal Inheritance’ won her the prestigious Thema Awards 1996/97 for the Best Actress in an English-speaking role and Best Actress Overall. This only catapulted her career to make her one of the most sought-after actress in Nollywood, starring in top movies such as Lost Kingdom 2 and Kosorugun 2, and earning awards such as a Grand Achiever Award at the Global Excellence Recognition Awards in 2004.

As a musician, she released her first album titled ‘GBA’ in 2005 followed by her sophomore album titled ‘Me, Myself, and Eyes’. She has collaborated with prominent international songwriters such as Drumma Boy and Jon Jon Traxx, and has also worked with R&B artist Bobby Valentino.

As a fierce human rights campaigner, Omotola’s philanthropic efforts are centered on her NGO ‘Omotola Youth Empowerment Programme’, which brings thousands of youths together every year for empowerment walks and conventions. In 2005, she became a United Nations World Food Programme Ambassador, and in 2011 became an Amnesty International campaigner. One of her most recent campaigns calls on government and oil companies to clean up the Niger Delta.

Nicknamed ‘Omosexy’ by her husband Matthew Ekeinde, she has a teenage son who is fast becoming known as one of the youngest music producers in Africa.

 
 
 
 

Jackie Appiah

Jackie Appiah is a seasoned actress who started her career at the age of 12 when she starred in the TV series Things We Do for Love. Jackie was born in Canada and relocated to Ghana with her family in 1993.

She also starred in the hit movie ‘Beyoncé – The President’s Daughter’ alongside prominent Ghanaian actors Van Vicker and Nadia Buari.

Jackie has graced many magazine covers and billboards, and has won numerous awards including ‘Best Supporting Actress’ at the Africa Movie Academy Awards.

Her popularity has landed her a large social media following, with over 1.7 million fans on Facebook.

 
 
Jackie Appiah smiling for a photoshoot in Ghana, Africa
 
 

Terry Pheto

Terry Pheto is an award-winning actress and producer, best known for her leading role as Miriam in the 2005 Oscar-winning feature film ‘Tsotsi’.

She grew up in Soweto, and got her big break at the age of 21 when she was spotted by casting director Moonyeenn Lee in a theatre group in Soweto during the casting process for ‘Tsotsi’. She has also featured in the films ‘Catch A Fire’ and ‘Sekalli Le Meokgo’ in 2006 and ‘Goodbye Bafana’ in 2007 where she played the role of Nelson Mandela’s daughter Zinzi. She later played the role of Nelson Mandela’s first wife Evelyn Mase in the popular ‘Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom’.

Her television work includes productions such as ‘Zone 14’, ‘Hopeville’, ‘Jacob’s Cross’, and recently, ‘Rockville Season 3’.

Terry was named as the face of L’Oreal in 2008, and has graced the covers of numerous magazines over the years such as Elle, Cosmopolitan, Marie Claire and True Love Magazine. In 2011, she landed a recurring role of a heart surgeon in the popular international soapie ‘The Bold and the Beautiful’.

She now has her own production company called Leading Lady Productions, which recently produced ‘Ayanda and the Mechanic’, a film which was honored with The Special Jury Prize at the 2015 LA Film Festival.

 
 
Terry Pheto smiling for the camera in South Africa, Africa
 
 

Lola Monroe

Lola Monroe, real name Fershgenet Melaku, is a hip hop artist of Ethiopian and Trinidadian descent living in the United States. Lola is also an actress and a former model.

Born in Addis Ababa and raised in Washington D.C, her interest in the arts was sparked when she started writing poems and songs at the age of 12. Lola burst into the music scene with her first mix titled ‘Boss Bitch’s World’, followed by ‘The Lola Monroe Chronicles’ and a collaborative tape with the now-incarcerated Lil’ Boosie, called ‘The Untouchables’. These mixtapes led her to a BET’s Best Female Hip Hop Artist nomination in 2011. That same year she was signed to Wiz Khalifa’s Taylor Gang label, which houses artists such as Ty Dollar $ign and and Juicy, but parted ways with the label after two years.

Lola got her first big break when she was discovered by her manager’s partner who was a photographer. She did her first modeling publication work, and was soon spotted by rapper 50 Cent who then featured her in his artists’ music videos. She also created the Bosset movement, which is a social movement centered about female empowerment. In an interview with Global Grind, she revealed that one of her darkest moments was being abused by an uncle that she was living with when she was a teen. This experience led her to establish the Triumphant Angel Foundation, which focuses on helping those affected by abuse.

 
 
lola monroe posing for a photoshoot in the united states. From Ethiopia, Africa
 
 

Tiwa Savage

Nigeria’s popular female music artist Tiwa Savage started her music career started when she was a member of her high school band and began writing her own songs. At the age of 16 she landed an opportunity to be a back-up singer for George Michael, which lead to more singing opportunities with prominent artists such as Mary J. Blige, Chaka Khan and Kelly Clarkson. She also has background vocal credits on Whitney Houston’s album ‘I Look To You’, and is signed to Sony ATV as a songwriter. Tiwa co-wrote Fantasia’s ‘Collard Greens and Cornbread’ track on the Grammy nominated album ‘Back To Me’, as well as Monica’s ‘New Life’.

She rose to prominence in 2010 with the release of her smash hit ‘Kele Kele Love’, followed by hit singles ‘Love Me, Love Me’, ‘Without My Heart’, ‘Ife Wa Gbona’, ‘Eminando’ and the recent smash hit with Mavin Records which also won ‘Song of the Year’ at the 2015 MTV Africa Music Awards ‘Dorobucci’. She set up her own record label in 2010 called 323 Entertainment.

Interesting facts about Tiwa include that she was born and bred in Lagos, and graduated from the University of Kent in the UK with a degree in business administration and accounts. In 2006, she entered the UK’s X-Factor, and made it to the Top 24. In 2011, she co-hosted Nigerian Idol Season II alongside Illrymz, and acted alongside Nollywood heavyweights Joke Silva and Ireti Doyle in the stage adaptation of ‘For Coloured Girls’. Twins has won numerous awards, including ‘Best Vocal Performance’ for ‘Love Me, Love Me‘ at The Headies, ‘Best Female’ for the 2014 MTV Africa Music Awards, and ‘Most Gifted Female’ at the 2014 Channel O Music Video Awards.

She married her manager Tunji “TJ Billz” Balogun in 2013, and they welcomed their first child in July 2015.

 
 
Tiwa-Savage posing for a photoshoot in Nigeria, Africa
 
 

Menna Shalaby

Menna Shalaby is an Egyptian actress and UNAIDS goodwill ambassador for AIDS awareness who was introduced to the world of fame through her famous mother who was a dancer, Zizi Mustafa. She made her film debut with ‘Al-saher’ in 2001, directed by Radwan El-Kashef, who would then become her mentor.

She solidified her acting skills by featuring in films such as ‘Iw’a Wishak’ and ‘The Best of Times’ in 2004. Menna has also played prominent roles in various TV series, most notably in ‘Sekket El Helaly’ and ‘Harb El Gawasis’.

She has won numerous awards for her work, including ‘Best Actress’ at the National Film Festival for Egyptian Cinema for her role in ‘Al Saher’ in 2001, Best Actress at the National Film Festival for Egyptian Cinema for her role in ‘An Eleshk Wel Hawa‘ in 2007 and Special Mention at the Alexandria Film Festival for her role in ‘Wahed men Elnas‘ in 2009. She also won an award for ‘Best Actress in a leading role’ at the ART Oscar for her role in the TV series ‘Harb El Gawasis’ in 2009.

 
 
Menna Shalaby from Egypt Africa.
 
 

Vimbai Mutinhiri

Vimbai Mutinhiri is a Zimbabwean model, television personality, actress and musician who is popularly known for being a housemate on Big Brother Amplified in 2011 (she was evicted from the house on the 84th day out of the 91 day competition).

Vimbai resided in different countries from the time she was born as her parents served as cabinet ministers in Zimbabwe and frequently travelled. She was born in Zimbabwe but raised in Serbia and Johannesburg, South Africa.

Her career kicked off when she was 15-years-old as an actress in Zimbabwe when she starred in the short film ‘Who’s In Charge’. The film was featured in the Zimbabwe International Film Festival in 2001. She was also featured on ‘Studio 263’ in 2009. Vimbai worked as a full-time model when she lived in South Africa, and studied Politics, Philosophy and Economics at the University of Cape Town.

She was named ‘Miss Global Face of Bio Oil’ after doing several campaigns for the company, and has also worked on several campaigns for major companies including MTV Base, Estee Lauder and Zain. She is a prominent feature on the runway of Zimbabwe Fashion Week, and she has also graced the runway of SA Fashion Week.

With her television work, Vimbai landed a presenter spot on Africa Magic’s Stargist, which is a daily entertainment show in 2012. She has also done hosting work for prominent entertainment events, and even released a music album titled ‘Vimbai‘ in 2011.

 
 
Vimbai Mutinhiri-a TV celebrity from Zimbabwe, Africa.
 
 

Bonang Matheba

Bonang Matheba is undoubtedly one of South Africa’s favourite entertainment personalities. The TV and radio presenter, MC and businesswoman began her career at the age of 15 as a TV presenter on a show called ‘Manhattan’s Fantasy Challenge‘. She skyrocketed to fame when she landed a co-presenter spot on the music and entertainment show ‘Live’ from 2007 to 2012.

During the FIFA Soccer World Cup in 2010, she presented the sports show ‘Tjovitjo’ which was broadcast on Supersport. Two years later she landed a presenting spot on premium lifestyle and magazine TV show, Top Billing. A year later she hosted popular singing competition ‘Clash of the Choirs’, and was announced as Revlon’s first South African brand ambassador. Bonang partnered with Woolworths to release her lingerie line called ‘Distraction By Bonang’ in 2014. In the same year, she was the first black woman to grace the cover of fashion magazine Glamour South Africa.

Apart from television, Bonang also has a strong following on radio. She started out as a DJ on the Johannesburg-based young adult station YFM in 2009 as the host of a hip hop show. She now hosts ‘The Front Row’ on Metro FM.

Bonang has received numerous accolades, notably the ’2015 Nickelodeon Kid’s Choice Award’ for Best South African Radio DJ, a 2014 You Spectacular Award for ‘Most Stylish Female Celebrity in South Africa’, and a Feather Award for ‘Most Stylish Female Personality’.

 
 
Bonang Matheba posing for the camera in South Africa, Africa
 
 
 
 
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Meet The Women Running Africa

By |Politics, Women Running Africa

With a population of over 1 billion, Africa is the second-largest and second most populous continent in the world. Of the total number of people, more than half are female, with an estimated 56% between the age of 15-64.

Some of them are at the front lines of leading their respective country’s on the continent as elected officials. Who are they? Africa.com has put together the first ever list of all African women leaders on the continent, from Presidents, to bank Governors. Meet the women running Africa:

 
 

ALGERIA

Algerian women running Africa

1. Dalia Boudjemaa – Secretary of State to the Minister of Territorial Management and the Environment (left)

2. Khalida Toumi – Minister of Culture (right)

 
 
 

ANGOLA

Angola-women-running-Africa-2

Angola women running Africa

From left to right:

  1. Maria Pereira Teixeira – Minister of Higher Education, Science and Technology
  2. Rosa Maria Martins Da Cruz e Silva – Minister of Culture
  3. Rosa Luis de Sousa Micolo – Minister of Parliamentary Affairs
  4. Maria de Fatima Monteiro Jardim – Minister of Environment
  5. Maria Telo Delgado – Minister of Family and Women Promotion
  6. Rosa Pacavira De Matos – Minister of Commerce
 
 
 

BENIN

 

Benin-women-running-africa-3

Benin Women Running Africa

From left to right:

  1. Fatuma Amadou Djbril – Minister of Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries
  2. Dorothy Kinde Gazard – Minister of Health
  3. Naomi Azaria – Minister of Youth, Sports and Leisure
  4. Francoise Assongba – Minster Responsible Microfinance, Employment, Youth and Women
  5. Marie-Laurence Sossou – Minister of Family, Social Affairs, National Solidarity, the Disabled Persons and Third Age
  6. Dossa Martine Francoise – Minister of Maritime Economy and Infrastructure Port
 
 
 

BOTSWANA

Botswana Women Running Africa

From left to right:

  1. Tebelelo Mazile Seretse – Ambassador to the United States
  2. Linah Mohohlo – Governor, Bank of Botswana
  3. Margaret Nasha – Minister in the Office of the President Responsible for Public Service
  4. Pelonomi Venson-Moiti – Minister of Education and Skills Development
  5. Athalia Molokomme – Attorney General
  6. Dorcas Makgato-Malesu – Minister of Trade and Industry
 
 
 

BURKINA FASO

 

Burkina-faso-women-running-africa-5

Burkina faso Women Running Africa

From left to right:

  1. Koumba Boly-Barry – Minister of Basic Education and Literacy
  2. Nestorine Sangare-Compaore – Minister of Women’s Affairs
  3. Clemence Traore-Some – Minister of Social Action and National Solidarity
 
 
 

BURUNDI

Burundi-women-running-africa-6

Burundi Women Running Africa

From left to right:

  1. Victorie Ndikumana – Minister of Commerce, Trade, Industry, Posts and Tourism
  2. Annonciate Sendazirasa – Minister of Civil Service, Labour and Social Security
  3. Clotilde Niragira – Minister of National Solidarity, Human Rights and Gender
  4. Angele Niuhire – Ambassador to the United States
  5. Hafsa Mossi – Minister of East African Community Affairs
  6. Dr. Sabine Ntakarutimana – Minister of Public Health and Fight Against Aids
  7. Odette Kayitesi – Minister of Agriculture and Livestock
 
 
 

CAMEROON

Cameroon-women-running-africa-7

Cameroon Women Running Africa

From left to right:

  1. Catherine Bakang Mbock – Minister of Social Affairs
  2. Ama Tutu Muna – Minister of Culture
  3. Marie Theresa Abena Ondoa – Minster of Women and Family Protection
  4. Madeleine Tchuente – Minister of Scientific Research and Innovation
 
 
 

CAPE VERDE

Cape Verde Women Running Africa

From left to right:

  1. Cristina Isabel Lopes da Silva Monteiro Duarte – Minister of Finance and Planning
  2. Fernanda Maria de Brito Marques – Minister of Education and Sports
  3. Maria De Fatima Lima Da Veiga – Ambassador to the United States
  4. Marisa Helena do Nascimento Morais – Minister of Internal Admin.
  5. Eva Verona Teixeira Ortet – Minister of Rural Affairs
  6. Maria Fernanda Tavares Fernandes – Minister of Communication
  7. Sara Maria Duarte Lopes – Minister of Environment, Housing and Territorial Admin.
  8. Janira Isabel Fonseca Hopffer Almada – Minister of Labour, Youth and Human Services
  9. Maria Cristina Lopes Almeida Fontes Lima – Minister of Health
 
 
 

CENTRAL AFRICAN REPUBLIC (CAR)

Central African Republic Women Running Africa

From left to right:

  1. Catherine Samba-Panza – Interim President
  2. Marie Madeleine N’Kouet – Minister of Health
  3. Dorothee Aimee Malenzapa – Minister of State for Rural Development
  4. Marie Madeline Moussa Yadouma – Minister of Social Affairs *not pictured
 
 
 

CHAD

Chad-women-running-africa-10

Chad Women Running Africa

From left to right:

  1. Fatime Tchombi – Minister in charge of Microfinance and Poverty Reduction
  2. Assia Abbo – Minister and Secretary General of the Government, in charge of relations with the National Assembly
  3. Mariam Attahir – Secretary of State for Agriculture
  4. Habiba Sahoulba – Secretary of State for Finance, in charge of the budget
  5. Azziza Baroud – Secretary of State for the Economy and Urban Planning, in charge of Microfinance and Poverty *not pictured
  6. Yaya Djabaye – Secretary of State for Higher Education *not pictured
  7. Khadidja Hassaballah – Secretary of State for National Education, in charge of Basic Education *not pictured
  8. Naima Abdelmouti – Secretary of State for Social Action *not pictured
 
 
 

COMOROS

Comoros Women Running Africa

  1. Bahiat Massoundi – Minister of Posts & Telecommunications & the Promotion of New Information & Communication Technologies Charged with Transportation and Tourism (left)
  2. Siti Kassim – Minister of Employment, Laour, Vocational Training & Women’s Entrepreneurship & Government Spokesperson (right)
 
 
 

CONGO-BRAZZAVILLE

Congo Brazzaville Women Running Africa

From left to right:

  1. Claudine Mounari – Minister of Commerce, Consumption and Supplies
  2. Adelaide Mougany – Minister of Small & Medium-Size Enterprises, in Charge of Cottage Industry
  3. Madeleine Yila Boumpoto – Minister for the Promotion of Women and the Integration of Women in Development
  4. Emilienne Raoul – Minister of Social Affairs, Humanitarian Action & Solidarity
  5. Rosalie Kama Niamayoua – Minister of Primary & Secondary Education, in Charge of Literacy *not pictured
 
 
 

CONGO – KINSHASA

Congo-Kinshasa-women-running-africa-13

Congo Kinshasa Women Running Africa

From left to right:

  1. Genevieve Inagosi – Minister of Gender, Family, and Children’s Affairs
  2. Wivine Mumva Matipa – Minister of Justice and Human Rights
  3. Faida Maramuke Mitifu – Ambassador to the United States
 
 
 

COTE D’IVOIRE (IVORY COAST)

Cote D’Ivoire Women Running Africa

From left to right:

  1. Kandia Kamissoko Camara – Minister of National Education and Technical Training
  2. Niale Kaba – Minister to the Prime Minister in Charge of Economy and Finance
  3. Affoussiata Bamba Lamine – Minister of Communication
  4. Raymonde Goudou Coffie – Minister of Health and HIV/Aids Control
  5. Anne Desiree Ouloto – Minsiter of Solidarity and the Family
 
 
 

DJIBOUTI

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Djibouti Women Running Africa

Hasna Barkat Daoud – Minister of the Promotion of Women & Family Welfare & Social Affairs

 
 
 

EGYPT

Egypt Women Running Africa

From left to right:

  1. Laila Rasha Iskander – Minister of Environment
  2. Maha al Raba – Minister of Health
  3. Dorreya Sharaf Al-din – Minister of Information
 
 
 

EQUATORIAL GUINEA

Equatorial Guinea Women Running Africa

  1. Maria Lenor Epam Biribe – Minister of Social Affairs & the Promotion of Women (left)
  2. Maria del Carmen Ekoro – Minister of Education & Science (right)
 
 
 

ERITREA

Eritrea Women Running Africa

From left to right:

  1. Amina Nurhussein – Minister of Health
  2. Fozia Hashim – Minister of Justice
  3. Askalu Menkerios – Minister of Tourism
  4. Salma Hassan – Minister of Labour and Human Welfare *not pictured
 
 
 

ETHIOPIA

Ethiopia Women Running Africa

From left to right:

  1. Sinkinesh Ejigu – Minister of Mines
  2. Demitu Hambessa – Minister of Science and Technology
  3. Zenebu Tadesse – Minister of Women, Children, and Youth Affairs
 
 
 

GABON

Gabon Women Running Africa

From left to right:

  1. Christiane Rose Raponda – Minister of Budget and Accounting
  2. Honorine Nzet Biteghe – Minister of Family and Social Affairs
  3. Ida Reteno Assounouet – Minister of Justice, Human Rights and Constitutional Institutions
 
 
 

GAMBIA

Gambia Women Running Africa

From left to right:

  1. Isatou Njie-Saidy – Vice President and Secretary of State for Women’s Affairs
  2. Fatrou Lamin Faye – Minister of Basic and Secondary Education
  3. Ftim Badjie – Minister of Health and Social Welfare
  4. Mariama Sarr-Ceesay – Minister of Higher Education and Research, Science and Technology
  5. Teneng M. Jaiteh – Minister of Petroleum and Mineral Resources
  6. Fatou Mas Jobe-Njie – Minister of Tourism and Culture
  7. Susan Waffa-Ogoo – Permanent Representative to the United Nations
 
 
 

GHANA

Ghana Women Running Africa

From left to right:

  1. Naana Jane Opoku-Agyeman – Minister of Education
  2. Hanna Tetteh – Minister of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration
  3. Nana Oye Lithur – Minister of Gender, Children, and Social Protection
  4. Hanny Sherry Ayittey – Minister of Health
  5. Marietta Brew-Appiah-Oppong – Minister of Justice and Attorney General
  6. Dzifa Attivor – Minister of Transportation
 
 
 

GUINEA

Guinea Women Running Africa

From left to right:

  1. Ramatoulaye Bah – Minister of Industry and Small & Medium Enterprises
  2. Fatoumata Tounkara – Minister of Labour and Public Service
  3. Diaka Diakite – Minister of Social Affairs and Female Promotion
  4. Mariame Balde – Minister of Hotel Management, Tourism and the Arts *not pictured
 
 
 

KENYA

Kenya Women Running Africa

From left to right:

  1. Raychelle Omama – Secretary of Defense
  2. Ann Waiguru – Secretary of Devolution and Planning
  3. Phyllis Chepkosgey Kandie – Secretary of East African Affairs, Commerce and Tourism
  4. Judy Wakhungu – Secretary of Environment, Water, and Natural Resources
  5. Amina Mohammed – Secretary of Foreign Affairs
  6. Charity Ngilu – Secretary of Lands, Housing and Urban Development
 
 
 

LESOTHO

Lesotho Women Running Africa

From left to right:

  1. Makabelo Priscilla Mosothoane – Minister of Education and Training
  2. Dr. Pinkie Rosemary Manamolela – Minister of Health Keketso Rant’so –
  3. Minister of Public Works and Transport
  4. Matebatso Doti – Minister of Social Development
  5. Mamahele Radebe – Minister of Tourism, Environment and Culture
  6. Rets’elisitsoe Adelaide Matlanyane – Governor of the Central Bank of Lesotho
 
 
 

LIBERIA

Liberia Women Running Africa

  1. Ellen Johnson Sirleaf – President
  2. Florence Chenoweth – Minister of Agriculture
  3. Miata Veysolow – Minister of Commerce and Industry
  4. Etmonia David Tarpeh – Minister of Education
  5. Julia Duncan-Cassell – Minister of Gender Development
  6. Edite Ramos Da Costa Ten Jua – Minister of Justice
  7. Varbah Gayflor – Minister of Labour
 
 
 

MADAGASCAR

Madagascar Women Running Africa

From left to right

  1. Elia Ravelomanatsoa – Minister of Culture & National Heritage
  2. Ruffine Tsiranana – Minister of Decentralization
  3. Christine Razanamahsoa – Minister of Justice & Keeper of the Seals
  4. Ihanta Randriamandranto – Minister of Livestock
  5. Daniella Randriafeno – Minister of Mines
  6. Olga Vaomalala – Minister of Population
  7. Olga Ramalason – Minister of Trade
  8. Elisa Razafitombo – Minister of Charge of Promotion of Handicrafts
 
 
 

MALAWI

Malawi Women Running Africa

From left to right

  1. Reene Kachere – Minister of Disability & Elderly Affairs
  2. Halima Daud – Minister of the Environment & Climate Change Management
  3. Anita Kalinde – Minister of Gender, Children, & Community Development
  4. Eunice Makangla – Minister of Labor
  5. Grace Maseko – Minister of Local Govt. & Rural Development
 
 
 

MALI

Mali Women Running Africa

From left to right:

  1. Dr. Dedia Mahamane Kattra Diallo – Minister of Employment & Vocational Training
  2. Fadima Toure Diallo – Minister of Housing, Land Affairs, & Town Development
  3. Rokiatou Guikine Traore – Minister of Malians Abroad & African Integration
  4. Ichata Sahi Alwata – Minister of Promotion of Women, Child, & Family
 
 
 

MAURITANIA

Mauritania Women Running Africa

From left to right:

  1. Cisse Mint Cheikh Ould Boide – Minister of Culture, Youth, & Sports
  2. Maty Mint Hamady – Minister of Public Services & Admin. Modernization
  3. Moulaty Mint El Moctar – Minister of Social, Child, & Family Affairs
 
 
 

MOROCCO

Morocco Women Running Africa

Bassima Hakkaoui – Minister of Solidarity, Women, Family, & Social Development

 
 
 

MOZAMBIQUE

Mozambique Women Running Africa

From left to right:

  1. Alcinda Antonio de Abreu – Minister for Coordination of Environmental Action
  2. Maria Benvinda Delfina Levi – Minister of Justice
  3. Maria Helena Taipo – Minister of Labor
  4. Esperanca Laurinda Francisco Nhiuane Bias – Minister of Mineral Resources
  5. Amelia Matos Sumbana – Ambassador to the US
  6. Vitoria Dias Diogo – Minister of Public Service
  7. Carmelita Rita Namashalua – Minister of State Admin.
  8. Iolanda Maria Pedro Campos Cintura – Minister of Women’s Affairs & Social Welfare
  9. Adelaide Anchia Amurane – Minister in the Presidency for Parliamentary, Municipal, & Provincial Assembly Affairs
 
 
 

NAMIBIA

Namibia Women Running Africa

From left to right:

  1. Saara Kuugongelwa-Amadhila – Minister of Finance
  2. Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah – Minister of Foreign Affairs
  3. Rosalia Nghininwa – Minister of Gender Equality & Child Welfare
  4. Pendukeni Iilvula-Ithana – Attorney Gen. and Minister of Home Affairs & Immigration
  5. Doreen Sioka – Minister of Labor & Social Welfare
 
 
 

NIGER

Niger Women Running Africa

From left to right:

  1. Sabo Fatouma Zara – Minister of Civil Service & Labor
  2. Ali Mariama Elhadj Ibrahim – Minister of National Education, Literacy, & Promotion of National Languages
  3. Salami Maimouna Almou – Minister of Transportation
  4. Yahaya Bare Haoua Abdou – Minister of Industrial Development, Handicraft, & Tourism *not pictured
  5. Maikibi Kadidia Dandobi – Minister of Population, Women’s Promotion, & Protection of Children *not pictured
  6. N’Gade Nana Hadiza Noma Kaka – Minister of Vocational Training & Employment *not pictured
 
 
 

Nigeria-women-running-africa

Nigeria Women Running Africa

From left to right:

  1. Stella Oduah-Ogiemwonyi – Minister of Aviation
  2. Omobola Johnson Olubusola – Minister of Communication Technology
  3. Raqayyatu Ahmed Rufai – Minister of Education
  4. Hadiza Ibrahim Mailafa – Minister of Environment
  5. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala – Minister of Finance
  6. Ama Pepple – Minister of Lands, Housing, & Development
  7. Diezani Alison-Madueke – Minister of Petroleum Resources
  8. Sarah Reng Ochekpe – Minister of Water Resources
  9. Josephine Anenih – Minister of Women’s Affairs
  10. Joy Ogwu – Permanent Representative to the UN, New York
 
 
 

Rwanda-women-running-africa

Rwanda Women Running Africa

From left to right

  1. Agnes Kalibata – Minister of Agriculture & Animal Resources
  2. Stella Ford Mugabo – Minister of Cabinet Affairs
  3. Serafine Mukatabana – Minister of Disaster Management & Refugee Affairs
  4. Monique Mukaruriza – Minister of East African Community
  5. Oda Gasizigwa – Minister of Family & Gender
  6. Louise Mushikiwabo – Minister of Foreign Affairs & Regional Cooperation
  7. Dr. Agnes Binagwaho – Minister of Health
  8. Venatia Tugireyezu – Minister in the Office of the President
  9. Alvera Mukabaramba – Minister of State in the Min. of Local Govt. in Charge of Social Affairs
  10. Emma Francoise Isumbingabo – Minister of State for Energy & Water
  11. Dr. Anita Asiime – Minister of State for Public Health & Primary Health Care
  12. Mathilde Mukantabana – Ambassador to the United States
 
 
 

Sao Tome and Principe Women Running Africa

  1. Natalie Pedro da Costa Umbelina Neto – Minister of Foreign Affairs, Cooperation, & Communities
  2. Edite Ramos Da Costa Ten Jua – Minister of Justice, Govt. Reform, & Parliamentary Affairs *not pictured
  3. Maria Tome De Araujo – Minister of Labor, Solidarity, Women, & Family Affairs *not pictured
 
 
 

From left to right:

  1. Aminata Toure – Prime Minister
  2. Mata Sy Diallo – Minister of Commerce, Industry, & Handicrafts
  3. Eva Marie Coll Seck – Minister of Health & Social Action
  4. Fatou Danielle Diagne – Ambassador to the United States (long photo)
  5. Khoudia Mbaye – Minister of Housing & Urban Development
  6. Aminata Mbengue Ndiaye – Minister of Livestock
  7. Mariama Sarr – Minister of Women, Children, & Female Entrepreneurship
 
 
 

Seychelles Women Running Africa

From left to right:

  1. Macsuzy Mondon – Minister for Education
  2. Idith Alexander – Minister for Employment & Human Resources
  3. Mitcy Larue – Minister for Health
  4. Caroline Abel – Governor, Central Bank
  5. Marie-Louise Potter – Ambassador to the United States
 
 
 

Sierra Leone Women Running Africa

  1. Miatta Kargbo – Minister of Health & Sanitation (left)
  2. Diana Konomanyi – Minister of Local Govt. & Rural Development (right)
 
 
 

Somalia Women Running Africa

  1. Fawzia Yusuf Haji Adan – Dep. Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs (left)
  2. Maryam Qasim – Minister of Social Services & Development (right)
 
 
 

South Africa Women Running Africa

From left to right:

  1. Tina Joemat- Pettersson – Minister of Energy
  2. Matsie Angelina Motshekga – Minister of Basic Education
  3. Nosiviwe Noluthando Mapisa-Nqakula – Minister of Defense & Military Veterans
  4. Grace Naledi Mandisa Pandor – Minister of Home Affairs
  5. Maite Nkoana-Mashabane – Minister of Intl. Relations & Cooperation
  6. Nelisiwe Mildred Oliphant – Minister of Labor
  7. Susan Shabangu – Minister of Mineral Resources
  8. Lindiwe Nonceba Sisulu – Minister of Public Service & Admin.
  9. Bathabile Olive Dlamini – Minister of Social Development
  10. Elizabeth Dipuo Peters – Minister of Transport
  11. Lulama “Lulu” Marytheresa Xingwana – Minister of Women, Children and People with Disabilities
  12. Gill Marcus – Governor, South African Reserve Bank
  13. Nomvula Mokonyane – Minister Water Affairs and Sanitation
  14. Faith Muthambi – Minister of Communications
  15. Lindiwe Zulu – Minister of Small Business and Development
  16. Lynne Brown – Minister of Public Enterprises
  17. Connie September – Minister of Human Settlements *not pictured
  18. Bomo Edna Molewa – Minister of Water & Environmental Affairs *not pictured
 
 
 

South Sudan Women Running Africa

From left to right:

  1. Nadia Arop Dudi – Minister of Culture, Youth, & Sports
  2. Jemma Nunu Kumba – Minister of Electricity, Dams, Irrigation, & Water Resources
  3. Awut Deng Acuil – Minister of Gender, Child, & Social Welfare
  4. Rebecca Joshua Okwachi – Minister of Telecommunication & Postal Services
  5. Catherine Juan Beneiah – Minister of Lands, Housing, & Physical Planning (**Not pictured)
 
 
 

Sudan Women Running Africa

From left to right:

  1. Suad Abdel Raziq – Minister of Gen. Education
  2. Ishraqa Sayeed Mahmoud – Minister of Human Resources, Development, & Labor
  3. Amira al-Fadil Mohamed Ahmed – Minister of Welfare & Social Insurance
 
 
 

Swaziland Women Running Africa

From left to right:

  1. Jabulile Mashwama – Minister of Commerce, Industry, & Trade
  2. Pastor Lindiwe Gwebu – Minister of Housing & Urban Development
  3. Winnie Magagula – Minister of Information & Communications Technology
  4. Princess Tsandzile – Minister of Natural Resources & Energy
  5. Hlobsile Ndvolu – Minister of Sports, Culture, & Youth Affairs
  6. Mary Madzandza Kanya – Ambassador to the United States
 
 
 

Tanzania Women Running Africa

From left to right:

  1. Sofia Mattayo Simba – Minister for Community Development, Gender, & Children
  2. Fenella Ephraim Mukangara – Minister for Information, Youth, Culture, & Sports
  3. Gaudentia Mugosi Kabaka – Minister for Labor & Employment
  4. Anna Kajumulo Tibaijuka – Minister for Lands & Human Settlements Development
  5.  Liberata Mulamula – Ambassador to the United States
  6. Terezya Pius Luoga Hovisa – Minister of State for Environment, Vice President’s Office
  7. Samia Hassan Suluhu – Minister of State for Union Affairs, Vice President’s Office
  8. Mary Michael Nagu – Minister of State for Investment & Empowerment, Prime Minister’s Office
  9. Hawa Abdulrahman Ghasia – Minister of State for Regional Admin. & Local Govt., Prime Minister’s Office
  10. Celina Ompeshi Kombani – Minister of State for Public Service Management, President’s Office
 
 
 

Togo women Running Africa

From left to right:

  1. Bernadette Essossimna Legzim-Balouki – Minister of Commerce & Promotion of Private Sector
  2. Dede Ahoefa Ekoue – Minister of Environment & Forest Resources
  3. Sidemeho Tomegah-Dogbe – Minister of Grassroots Development, Crafts, Youth, & Youth Employment
  4. Leonardina Rita Doris Wilson De Souza – Minister of Human Rights, Democracy, & Civic Education
  5. Cina Lawson – Minister of Mail & Telecommunication
  6. Patricia Dagban-Zonvide – Minister of the Promotion of Women
  7. Afi Ntifa Amenyo – Minister of Social Action & National Solidarity
 
 
 

Tunisia Women Running Africa

Sihem Babi – Min. of Women’s Affairs & the Family

 
 
 

Uganda Women Running Africa

From left to right:

  1. Hope Mwesigye – Minister for Agriculture, Animal Industry, & Fisheries
  2. Jessica Alupo – Minister for Education & Sports
  3. Maria Kiwanuka – Minister for Finance, Planning, & Economic Development
  4. Amelia Kyanbadde – Minister for Trade
  5. Maria Mutagamba – Minister for Water & Environment
  6. Jessica Eriyo – Minister of State for Environment
  7. Rukia Isanga – Minister of State for Gender (Women)
  8. Janet Museveni – Minister of State for Karamoja, Office of the Prime Min.
  9. Ruth Nankabirwa – Minister of State for Microfinance
  10. Sezi Mbaguta – Minister of State for Public Service
  11. Betty Bigombe – Minister of State for Water
  12. Chekamondo Rukia – Minister of State for Privatization (not pictured**)
  13. Christine Androa – Minister for Health (not pictured**)
 
 
 

Zambia Women Running Africa

From left to right:

  1. Nkandu Luo – Minister of Chiefs & Traditional Affairs
  2. Emerine Kabanshi – Minister of Local Govt., Housing, Early Education, & Environment
  3. Sylvia Masebo – Minister of Tourism & Arts
  4. Inonge Mbikusita-Lewanika – Ambassador to the United States
  5. Patricia Mwaba Kasese-Bota – Permanent Representative to the UN, New York
 
 
 

Zimbabwe Women Running Africa

From left to right:

  1. Joice Mujuru – Vice President
  2. Thokozani Khupe – Deputy Prime Minister
  3. Theresa Makone – Minister of Home Affairs
  4. Paurina Gwanyana-Mpariwa – Minister of Labor
  5. Priscila Misihairabwi-Mushonga – Minister of Regional Integration & Intl. Cooperation
  6. Sithembiso Nyoni – Minister of Small & Medium Enterprises
  7. Olivia Muchena – Minister of Women’s Affairs, Gender, & Community Development
 
 
 
 
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10 Top Female Business Leaders

By |BUSINESS, Leaders, Lists, Women Running Africa, Women's Spotlight

The past few years have seen a rise in the number of women-owned businesses in Africa. Be it in IT, oil, mining, or in the aviation sector, female entrepreneurs are breaking gender stereotypes and showing that what a man can do, a woman can also do, if not better. Bold and fearlessly ambitious, these are some of the female business leaders who shape the future of the continent and inspire not only countless other women, but also anyone who dares to dream.

 

Njeri Rionge – Kenya

The Kenyan business magnet started her first business at the age of 19, selling yoghurt at schools in the capital, Nairobi. She went on to sell clothes and run a few other small businesses. Today, Njeri Rionge is one of the women pioneer investors in the IT sector in Africa, having co-founded Wananchi Online, East Africa’s first mass market internet service provider which has grown to become the region’s leading internet company.

Over the years, the serial entrepreneur has established a host of other thriving businesses, including Ignite Consulting, a flourishing business consultancy; Ignite Lifestyle, a health care consultancy; Business Lounge, one of Kenya’s largest startup incubators; and Insite, a booming digital marketing agency.

When Njeri is not busy expanding her business empire, she is imparting knowledge and skills to young entrepreneurs in her country, and helping them grow their own businesses.

 
 
 
 

Isabel do Santos – Angola

With an estimated net worth of $3.3 billion, the eldest daughter of Angolan president Jose Eduardo dos Santos is the richest woman on the continent.

Isabel accumulated her wealth in oil, diamonds, as well as in the communications and banking sectors. She boasts shareholdings in Portuguese banks and energy firms such as Banco Portugues de Investimento and Portuguese Energias de Portugal respectively. In Angola, she’s the chairwoman of Unitel SA, one of the country’s largest mobile network companies, valued at more than $5 billion.

While it’s unclear how the 42-year-old mogul got her start, she says she used her savings to open one of Luanda’s most expensive nightclubs, Miami Beach. From there, she started a trucking company to transport products for the club and other businesses.

 
 
 
 

Folorunsho Alakija – Nigeria

Folorunsho Alakija started her career as a secretary for the now-defunct Merchant Bank of Nigeria. She quit her job in the 80s to study fashion design in England, returning to her native country a few years later to set up Supreme Stitches, a fashion label that catered for elite Nigerian women.

Fast forward to 2016 and the 65-year-old businesswoman is Africa’s second wealthiest woman, estimated by Forbes to be worth $2.1 billion. No, she didn’t make all her money from her fashion venture. Instead, a significant portion of Folorunsho’s fortune comes from her oil exploration company Famfa Oil. She also has investments in real estate.

 
 
 
 

Sibongile Sambo – South Africa

When Sibongile Sambo applied for a flight attendant job with South African Airways, she was rejected as she did not meet the minimum height requirements. Instead of giving up her dream of flying, she started her own aviation business. Today, she is the founder and managing director of SRS Aviation, the first black female-owned aviation company in South Africa.

SRS Aviation offers professional and personalised flight options to destinations around the world, with charter services in a variety of categories, including VIP charter, tourist charter, and cargo charter. The company also provides game count and capture, and medical evacuation services.

Sibongile’s inspiring work has seen the 42-year-old entrepreneur accumulate a number of awards over the years, including the Regional Business Woman of the Year award, the Black Women in Business award, and the Top Emerging Gender Empowered Company award.

 
 
 
 

Divine Ndhlukula – Zimbabwe

Devine Ndhlukula tackled a male-dominated industry head on, inspiring countless women on the continent to pursue their dreams despite the odds.

Divine is the founder and Managing Director of SECURICO, a security company she started in the late 90s in her cottage with four employees and very little capital. Today, SECURICO is one of the largest security firms in Zimbabwe, with more than 3,500 employees. Divine is ready for regional dominance, with plans to expand into other countries on the continent, starting with Mozambique and Zambia.

Last year, Divine was selected as one of the most influential female leaders in the world by Empowering a Billion Women by 2020, a global women empowerment movement whose list also included world leaders like Michelle Obama, Hilary Clinton, and Mozambican former first Lady Graca Machel.

 
 
 
 

Bethlehem Tilahun Alemu – Ethiopia

Growing up in a small neighbourhood in Addis Ababa, beloved entrepreneur Bethlemen Tilahun Alemu discovered that most people in her community were living in poverty and that some of them possessed artisan skills. Spurred by this realisation, she sought to find a way to translate the skills of her people into a business, and thus SoleRebels was born, in 2004. The eco-friendly footwear manufacturer creates hundreds of local jobs.

Not only has Bethlehem’s company grown to be one of the largest footwear companies in Africa, but it has also become a successful world class venture, with flagship stores in Taiwan, Spain, Switzerland, Austria, U.S, Singapore, Japan and many other countries.

Bethlehem has received a number of accolades for the work she has done to empower the Ethiopian youth with opportunities. In 2011, the 36-year-old entrepreneur made it into the World Economic Forum’s list of Young Global Leaders. She’s also been named by Forbes as one of 20 Youngest Power Women in Africa, and one of the World’s 100 Most Powerful Women.

 
 
 
 

Tabitha Karanja – Kenya

Tabitha’s success story is that of resilience and fortitude. The 51-year-old is the founder and CEO of the only large-scale brewery in Kenya owned by a Kenyan. She launched Keroche Breweries in 1997, initially making fortified wine and later moving into spirits and, from 2008, beer.

Tabitha ventured into a territory where a few before her had dared to, breaking gender stereotypes and taking on East African Breweries (EAB), an international company that had monopolised the Kenyan market for more than 90 years. EAB’s dominance had Tabitha struggling to find distributors willing to sell her beer, but she continued pressing until the market responded to her main beer brand Summit.

Summit is now so appreciated in the country that last year Tabitha opened a $29 million expansion of its brewery. As Keroche enjoys continued growth, Tabitha plans to expand into neighbouring countries, including Tanzania, Uganda, and Rwanda.

 
 
 
 

Hajia Bola Shagaya – Nigeria

Hajia Bola Shagaya is the founder and CEO of Bolmus Group International – a Nigerian conglomerate which has its fingers in every pie. Oil, real estate, banking, communications – Hajia is certainly a savvy businesswoman who knows where the money is. Oh, she is also involved in photography – her company Fotofair is a leading photo laboratory firm in Nigeria with over thirty laboratories across the country.

Hajia started out in banking, working for the Central Bank of Nigeria before starting her first business in 1983. Around 2005, she became the managing director of Practoil Limited, one of the largest importers and distributors of base oil in Nigeria, and in 2011 she founded another exploration company, Voyage Oil and Gas Limited. She is also one of the board members of Nigeria’s Unity Bank and has a significant stake in the bank.

 
 
 
 

Salwa Akhannouch – Morocco

Salwa Akhannouch is an ambitious woman. She ventured into business in 1993 when she established a distribution company for floor laying materials. Her determination and hard work saw her become one of Morocco’s prominent entrepreneurs.

Today, Salwa is the head of Akwa Group, a distributor of petroleum products, and the founder of Aksal Group, a Moroccan giant in luxury goods, retail, department stores, and shopping malls. Her company has a 50% stake in Morocco Mall, one of the largest shopping malls on the continent. Salwa also holds the exclusive license to sell high end fashion brands such as Zara, Gap, and Massimo Duti in Morocco.

 
 
 
 

Bridgette Radebe – South Africa

Beginning as a contract miner in the 80s managing shafts, Bridgette Radebe harboured bigger dreams. She went on to launch Mmakau Mining, a successful business with interests in gold, platinum, coal, ferrochrome, and uranium assets.

As South Africa’s first black female mining entrepreneur and president of the country’s largest mining chamber, the South African Mining Development Association, Bridgette is a shining example that women power is an unstoppable force.

 
 
 
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Oprah WinfreyShe was the richest African American person of the 20th century and the first black woman to become a multi-millionaire, but Oprah Winfrey started out in life as just a regular girl from a poor background in Mississippi.

A successful student, she obtained a full scholarship to Tennessee State University and over the years, has built up one of the most successful media empires.

After the incredible interest in her Emmy award winning talk show, The Oprah Winfrey Show, she quickly founded her own production company, Harpo and invested in helping victims of childhood sexual abuse, after confessing on her own show that she had been a victim herself during her childhood.

It doesn't stop there. in 2011, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences honored Oprah with the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award, and in 2013, Oprah was given the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

She has her own television network, OWN, and a new talk show called "Oprah's Next Chapter". To this day, she is one of the most powerful celebrities in the world.

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