Key Takeaways
- 9 African leaders from diverse fields made TIME's 100 Most Influential People list for 2025
- The honorees include experts in health, governance, media, science, agriculture, arts, and activism
- These influential Africans come from various countries including Ethiopia, Botswana, Nigeria, Morocco, The Gambia, and Zimbabwe
- Their recognition highlights Africa's growing global influence across multiple sectors
In a powerful display of African excellence and global influence, nine remarkable leaders from the continent have earned spots on the prestigious TIME100 Most Influential People list for 2025. These individuals span diverse fields - from healthcare and governance to media, science, culinary arts, and social activism - demonstrating Africa's multifaceted contributions to global progress.
Let's take a closer look at these exceptional leaders who are not only making waves in their respective fields but also reshaping narratives about Africa on the world stage.
Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus: Global Health Leadership
Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has made history as the first African to lead the World Health Organization (WHO). The Ethiopian physician has been at the forefront of global health initiatives, particularly during the challenging COVID-19 pandemic years.
His leadership has been vital in coordinating international health policies and advocating for equal access to vaccines and medical resources worldwide. This marks his second appearance on the TIME100 list, highlighting his ongoing influence in global health diplomacy.
Dr. Tedros has consistently championed the health needs of underserved populations, bringing attention to health crises that might otherwise be overlooked. His work represents not just personal achievement but a significant step forward for African representation in global health governance.
Under his direction, the WHO has strengthened its focus on health equity and pandemic preparedness, lessons learned from recent global health challenges. His inclusion on this prestigious list acknowledges the critical role Africa plays in shaping international health policy.
Dr. Duma Boko: Political Transformation in Botswana
Dr. Duma Boko made headlines last October when he led his party to victory, ending nearly six decades of single-party rule in Botswana since its independence from Britain. This peaceful democratic transition has been widely praised as a model for the continent.
As Botswana's president, Dr. Boko has implemented progressive reforms aimed at strengthening democratic governance and diversifying the nation's economy beyond its traditional diamond industry base. His administration has placed special emphasis on sustainable development, education enhancement, and technological innovation.
His leadership style has been characterized by pragmatic policies that balance economic growth with social welfare. By focusing on these areas, Dr. Boko is helping position Botswana as a shining example of good governance in Africa.
The inclusion of Dr. Boko on the TIME100 list recognizes the importance of democratic transitions and effective governance in shaping Africa's future and global standing.
Mo Abudu: Revolutionizing African Media
Nicknamed the "Oprah of Africa," Mo Abudu has transformed the African media landscape through her company, EbonyLife Media. The Nigerian media mogul launched the ambitious $50 million Afro Film Fund last year, demonstrating her commitment to elevating African storytelling.
Her pioneering work has been instrumental in bringing authentic African narratives to global audiences through partnerships with major platforms like Netflix and showcases at international film festivals. These efforts have helped challenge stereotypes and create more nuanced portrayals of Africa in global media.
Abudu's business acumen combined with her passion for storytelling has created opportunities for countless African creatives in the film and television industry. Her vision extends beyond entertainment to using media as a tool for changing perceptions and creating economic opportunities.
Her place on the TIME100 list acknowledges the power of media in shaping global narratives and the importance of having African voices leading that conversation.
Dr. Christian Happi: Scientific Innovation
Dr. Christian Happi stands at the forefront of genomic research in Africa as the director of the African Centre of Excellence for Genomics of Infectious Diseases and professor of molecular biology and genomics at Redeemer's University in Nigeria.
His groundbreaking work in genomics has led to the development of crucial diagnostic tools and treatments for diseases prevalent across Africa. Dr. Happi's research has been particularly significant in addressing infectious diseases that disproportionately affect African populations but often receive less global research attention.
By building scientific capacity within Africa, Dr. Happi is helping ensure that the continent can respond effectively to its own health challenges. His work exemplifies the critical importance of developing local scientific expertise rather than relying solely on external solutions.
The recognition of Dr. Happi on the TIME100 list highlights Africa's growing contributions to global scientific advancement and the importance of investing in African scientific infrastructure.
Dr. Ismahane Elouafi: Agricultural Solutions for Africa
As a leading figure in agricultural biotechnology, Dr. Ismahane Elouafi of Morocco is tackling one of Africa's most pressing challenges: food security. As Executive Managing Director of CGIAR, she helps millions of people grow stronger, healthier crops and restore damaged soil.
Dr. Elouafi's research focuses on developing drought-resistant crops, which are becoming increasingly vital as climate change affects farming conditions across Africa. Her work combines scientific innovation with practical applications that directly benefit farmers across the continent.
Through her leadership, she's helping transform agricultural practices to be more sustainable and resilient in the face of environmental challenges. The impact of her work extends beyond agriculture to addressing broader issues of poverty reduction and economic stability.
Her inclusion on the TIME100 list recognizes the critical importance of agricultural innovation in addressing global challenges like climate change and food security.
Kwame Onwuachi: Culinary Ambassador
Nigerian-American chef Kwame Onwuachi has gained international acclaim for his innovative approach to African and Caribbean cuisine. He has successfully brought African culinary traditions into the global spotlight, rewriting the narrative in spaces that once overlooked Black chefs.
Onwuachi's culinary creations thoughtfully blend traditional African flavors with contemporary techniques, offering unique dining experiences that celebrate African heritage. Through his restaurants, he tells stories of African diaspora cultures through food.
His impact extends beyond the kitchen as he advocates for greater diversity in the culinary world and brings attention to the rich culinary traditions of Africa. Onwuachi has brought his personal story into each of his restaurants, creating spaces that honor African and Caribbean food traditions.
His recognition on the TIME100 list highlights the growing global appreciation for African culinary traditions and the power of food as a form of cultural expression and heritage preservation.
Mickalene Thomas: Artistic Vision
While American by nationality, artist Mickalene Thomas draws deep inspiration from African culture and aesthetics in her acclaimed artistic work. Her vibrant and textured portraits celebrate African-American womanhood and identity.
Thomas works across multiple mediums including photography, painting, video, fashion, and furniture, creating stunning and dynamic worlds in each. Her art challenges conventional representations and celebrates Black femininity in powerful ways.
By drawing on African artistic traditions, Thomas creates contemporary works that connect audiences to cultural heritage while addressing modern themes of identity and representation. Her work has been exhibited in major galleries and museums worldwide.
Her inclusion on the TIME100 list recognizes the global influence of African artistic traditions and the importance of representation in the arts.
Fatou Baldeh: Advocating for Women's Rights
Gambian activist Fatou Baldeh has earned recognition not only on the TIME100 list but also as one of TIME's Women of the Year 2025 for her courageous campaign against female genital mutilation (FGM) in The Gambia.
Through grassroots organizing, education initiatives, and policy advocacy, Baldeh has created meaningful change in attitudes and practices regarding FGM. Her work addresses both the immediate health impacts of the practice and the broader social and gender equality issues it represents.
Baldeh's approach combines cultural sensitivity with an unwavering commitment to protecting women's bodily autonomy and rights. By working within communities while advocating for policy change, she has created a model for effective activism on sensitive cultural issues.
Her recognition highlights the critical importance of grassroots activism in advancing human rights and the powerful impact individual leaders can have in challenging harmful traditional practices.
Angeline Murimirwa: Educational Opportunities
Zimbabwean leader Angeline Murimirwa serves as CEO of CAMFED (Campaign for Female Education), an organization helping millions of girls access education across Ghana, Malawi, Tanzania, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.
As an Africa Education Medal 2024 finalist, Murimirwa has been recognized for her commitment to expanding educational opportunities for girls across the continent. Her leadership has directly impacted millions of young women who might otherwise have been denied educational opportunities.
Her work addresses not only access to education but also the quality and relevance of that education in preparing young women for leadership roles. CAMFED's approach recognizes that educating girls has multiplier effects across entire communities.
Her inclusion on the TIME100 list acknowledges the fundamental importance of education in creating sustainable development and the specific challenges girls face in accessing educational opportunities in many parts of Africa.
The Significance of African Representation
The strong African presence on the TIME100 list represents a significant shift in global recognition of African leadership and innovation. As TIME Editor in Chief Sam Jacobs noted, the 2025 list includes leaders from 32 countries, reflecting a truly global perspective on influence.
These nine African leaders exemplify the diverse talents and contributions coming from the continent, each making significant strides in their respective fields. Their recognition showcases Africa's increasing role in global discussions on health, technology, leadership, cultural exchange, and social progress.
The inclusion of these leaders on such a prestigious global list helps challenge outdated narratives about Africa and highlights the continent's growing influence in shaping global agendas and solving global challenges.
As TIME CEO Jessica Sibley stated about the list, it "recognizes the leaders shaping the world today and defining its future." The strong African representation confirms that the continent's leaders are indeed helping shape our collective future.
Frequently Asked Questions
How are people selected for the TIME100 Most Influential People list?
TIME's editors select individuals based on their impact, influence, and contributions in their respective fields. The list aims to recognize those who are shaping global trends and driving significant change, regardless of whether that influence is perceived as positive or negative.
How many African leaders have previously appeared on the TIME100 list?
African representation on the list has grown over recent years, though comprehensive historical data isn't provided in the source material. Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus is making his second appearance on the list in 2025.
Does inclusion on the TIME100 list indicate approval of a person's actions or policies?
Not necessarily. TIME has consistently maintained that the list recognizes influence, not endorsement. People may be included because of their significant impact, even if controversial.
Are there more African leaders making global impact beyond those on this list?
Absolutely. The TIME100 list can only include a limited number of people, and many influential African leaders making significant contributions in various fields may not appear on this particular list.
How can I learn more about these influential African leaders?
You can follow their work through their organizations, social media platforms, and news coverage. Many of them have websites or are affiliated with institutions that provide information about their ongoing projects and initiatives.