In celebration of International Women's Day (IWD) 2025, a remarkable milestone has been reached in Africa, where an increasing number of women are taking on leadership roles in governance. A total of 24 African women have made history as presidents, national leaders, and heads of state, breaking barriers and shattering glass ceilings in the process.

This achievement aligns with the IWD 2025 campaign theme, "Accelerate Action," which emphasizes the urgency of advancing gender equality, especially in governance. The rise of African women in leadership positions is a testament to the growing momentum of women's empowerment across the continent.

One of the most recent milestones is Namibia's election of Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah as its first female president, marking a historic moment for gender representation in Southern Africa. Similarly, Ghana elected Rebecca Alhassan as its first female vice president, joining other African nations in advancing women's leadership at the highest levels of government.

Africa has witnessed several women rise to the highest levels of leadership, assuming roles as presidents, prime ministers, and acting heads of state, either through elections, constitutional succession, or interim appointments. These female leaders have had to overcome significant challenges, including gender bias, heightened scrutiny, and political resistance.

Notable female presidents include Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, who made history as Africa's first elected female President of Liberia, and Joyce Banda, who became Malawi's first female President after the sudden death of President Bingu wa Mutharika. Other notable female leaders include Sahle-Work Zewde, who became Ethiopia's first female President in 2018, and Samia Suluhu Hassan, who is the first woman to serve as President of Tanzania.

In addition to presidents, several women have also held prime ministerial positions, including Kuugongelwa-Amadhila, Saara, who is the first woman to serve as Prime Minister of Namibia, and Luísa Dias Diogo, who served as Prime Minister of Mozambique from 2004 to 2010.

The success of these female leaders is reshaping the political landscape, inspiring more women to pursue leadership roles across the continent. As the IWD 2025 campaign theme emphasizes, accelerating action towards gender equality is crucial for achieving a more equitable and just society.

The list of 24 African women who have made history as presidents, national leaders, and heads of state is a testament to the progress made towards gender equality in governance. These women have paved the way for future generations of female leaders, and their achievements will continue to inspire and empower women across Africa and beyond.