Geneva, Switzerland – Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, the Director-General of the World Trade Organization (WTO), has been honored as THISDAY newspaper’s “Woman of the Year 2024.”
The prestigious recognition highlights her exceptional leadership at the WTO, where she has championed historic trade agreements that have bolstered global economic recovery, particularly for developing nations.
Dr. Okonjo-Iweala has been a vocal advocate for equitable vaccine distribution and climate-resilient trade policies, ensuring that marginalized economies have access to critical resources. She has also spearheaded initiatives that promote women’s empowerment in global trade, offering support to female entrepreneurs worldwide.
Her tenure at the WTO, which began in March 2021, marked a historic milestone as she became the first woman and the first African to lead the organization. During her time as Director-General, she has worked tirelessly to enhance the WTO’s relevance and capacity in addressing evolving global trade challenges.
This latest accolade adds to her long list of achievements, including being named one of Time magazine’s 100 Most Influential People and one of Forbes’ Top 100 Most Powerful Women in the World.
Dr. Okonjo-Iweala continues to be celebrated for her innovative and inclusive approach to global economics and trade. Her contributions have not only advanced international trade policies but also inspired a new generation of leaders committed to fairness and equity on the global stage.
