The World Trade Organization celebrates Director-General Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala's inclusion on Forbes' prestigious 2025 list of the 100 World's Most Powerful Women. She secured the 92nd position this year. This marks her eighth appearance on the list, highlighting her enduring global impact.
Dr. Okonjo-Iweala graces the magazine's cover alongside icons like Taylor Swift, MacKenzie Scott, and Sanae Takaichi. As the first woman and first African to lead the WTO since 2021, she drives reforms in the multilateral trading system. Her efforts aim to protect smaller nations from chaotic trade practices.
In her statement on X, Dr. Okonjo-Iweala expresses gratitude: "Nice to make (for the eighth time) the @Forbes List of the 100 most powerful women of the world 2025 and to be on the cover of the magazine. With power comes responsibility! We are doing our best to fight for and reform the rules-based multilateral trading system which the world needs to avoid a chaotic approach to world trade that would hurt the smallest and the least powerful countries."
She also congratulates fellow honorees, especially African leaders. These include Namibia's President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, DRC's Prime Minister Judith Suminwa, Bidvest CEO Mpumi Madisa, EbonyLife Group CEO Mo Abudu, and Barbados' Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley.
Forbes recognizes women who shape industries, economies, and communities across various sectors. Dr. Okonjo-Iweala's prior roles as Nigeria's Finance Minister and a 25-year veteran at the World Bank underscore her expertise in economic policy and global development.
This accolade inspires women worldwide and affirms Africa's rising influence on the global stage. The WTO remains committed to inclusive trade under her leadership.