Director-General of the World Trade Organization, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, and media mogul Mo Abudu have been featured once again in Forbes’ prestigious annual 100 Most Powerful Women in the World list for 2024. This recognition highlights their influence and achievements on the global stage.
Okonjo-Iweala, making her eighth appearance, ranked 89th. Her previous mentions spanned from 2011 to 2015, and more recently in 2022 and 2023. Abudu, ranking 97th, celebrated her fourth consecutive year on the list, having first appeared in 2021 at 99th and rising in subsequent years.
Expressing her gratitude, Abudu, founder of EbonyLife Media, remarked, “I am deeply humbled to feature once again on this list. It’s an honor to represent the media and entertainment sector, to stand as a proud Black woman, and to fly the flag for Nigeria and Africa.” She also commended her fellow honorees, particularly Okonjo-Iweala, adding, “Her unwavering brilliance and leadership inspire us all.”
Abudu emphasized the importance of such recognition for women of color and those from developing nations, stating, “Representation matters. This acknowledgment reminds us of what’s possible and motivates us to continue breaking barriers.” She also thanked Forbes for celebrating the achievements and resilience of women worldwide.
Joining them on the 2024 list were other prominent African figures, including Judith Suminwa Tuluka from the Democratic Republic of Congo, Mpumi Madisa from South Africa, and Tanzania’s President Samia Suluhu Hassan.
Forbes’ 100 Most Powerful Women list honors individuals making transformative impacts across sectors like business, politics, entertainment, and technology.
Top spots in 2024 went to:
1. Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission
2. Christine Lagarde, President of the European Central Bank
3. Giorgia Meloni, Prime Minister of Italy
4. Claudia Sheinbaum, President of Mexico
5. Mary Barra, CEO of General Motors
6. Abigail Johnson, CEO of Fidelity Investments
7. Julie Sweet, Chairwoman and CEO of Accenture
8. Melinda French Gates, Philanthropist
9. MacKenzie Scott, Philanthropist
10. Jane Fraser, CEO of Citigroup
This year’s list celebrates women redefining leadership and making significant strides globally.
