In a powerful address during the inaugural TIME100 Africa Summit, former Liberian President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, the first female head of state in Africa, emphasized the necessity of having more women in leadership positions. Speaking in Kigali, Sirleaf expressed her belief that women make better leaders and that their inclusion in power would hasten dialogue and action.
The TIME100 franchise, known for its prestigious annual list of the world’s most influential people, has for the first time arrived in Africa. The summit brings together regional and international leaders, influencers, and visionaries to discuss the solutions required for a brighter future.
The summit began on an enchanting note with a captivating performance by the Intayoberana Cultural Troupe, showcasing traditional Rwandan song and dance. It set the stage for discussions on leadership and the remarkable legacy of Ellen Johnson Sirleaf.
Reflecting on her journey as a leader, Sirleaf shared her experiences of overcoming deeply entrenched misogyny, exile, and even imprisonment following her ascent to Liberia’s highest office. Undeterred by these challenges, Sirleaf passionately advocated for more women to participate in political leadership.
Addressing the critical issues facing leaders today, Sirleaf highlighted the fragmentation among global powers that has impacted multilateralism, global cooperation, and the response to worldwide conflicts. She emphasized that women, who govern with a unique perspective, infused with empathy, tend to prioritize mediation over conflict.
Sirleaf is renowned for her unwavering commitment to peace, democracy, and women’s empowerment. Serving as Liberia’s Finance Minister from 1979 to 1980 and later becoming President from 2006 to 2018, she successfully guided her nation through post-civil war reconstruction challenges, attracting over $16 billion in foreign investment and effectively managing the 2014 Ebola outbreak. Sirleaf also championed education, implementing free and compulsory schooling for elementary-age children and acknowledging the crucial link between education and a thriving democracy. Her remarkable achievements led to her being awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2011.
The TIME100 Summit Africa is supported by Visit Rwanda, Kigali International Financial Centre, and RwandAir, underscoring the importance of collaboration and partnerships in shaping Africa’s future.
As the summit continues, other notable figures, including Danai Gurira, Sindy Zemura-Bernard, Kate Kallot, Fatima Tambajang, Dr. Yvan Butera, Edna Adan Ismail, Elizabeth Wathuti, and Eugenia Kargbo, will further highlight critical topics such as shifting barriers, Africa as an innovation hub, rethinking healthcare, prosperity and growth, and environmental conservation.
The 2023 TIME100 Africa Summit is poised to inspire change, foster dialogue, and contribute to the advancement of the African continent, driven by a vision for inclusive leadership that empowers women and addresses pressing global challenges.
