In a groundbreaking move, the Most Influential People of African Descent (MIPAD) has unveiled its inaugural list titled “Trade Champions of African Descent Worldwide,” featuring 100 outstanding individuals of African heritage. These individuals, excelling in various sectors such as finance, technology, energy, and agriculture, are shaping economic landscapes across continents and asserting the influence of African ingenuity in the global economy.
The list serves not only as a celebration of achievement but also as an inspiring testament to the potential and power of the African diaspora in driving economic growth and prosperity. It highlights a diverse range of success stories, representing different industries, countries, and generations. These Trade Champions are a collective testament to the multifaceted contributions of Africans and their descendants to the world’s trade dynamics.
Among these luminaries are several Nigerians who have made remarkable strides on the global stage. Notably, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala stands out as the first African and first woman to head the World Trade Organization (WTO). Dr. Doris Nkiruka Uzoka-Anite, Nigeria’s Minister of Industry, Trade, and Investment, is also featured for her influential role in shaping trade policies.
The list further includes Kanayo Awani, Executive Vice President of the Intra-African Trade Bank (IATB); Kemi Arosanyin, Director of Trade Development (Africa & Caribbean) at the World Trade Center; Kemi Badenoch, the UK’s Secretary of State for Business and Trade; Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe, CEO and MD of Fidelity Bank; Nonye Ayeni, Executive Director and CEO of the Nigerian Export Promotion Council; and Enoh T. Ebong, Director of the U.S. Trade and Development Agency.
Other distinguished figures include Prof. Benedict Okey Oramah, President of the African Export–Import Bank (Afreximbank), and Sand Mba Kalu, Executive Director of Africa International Trade & Commerce Research.
Beyond Nigeria, the list celebrates global African figures such as Wamkele Mene, Secretary-General of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA); Joy Wanjiru Machugu-Zenz, CEO of African Women in Trade (AfWITrade); Florizelle Liser, President and CEO of the Corporate Council on Africa; and Kamel Rezig, Algeria’s Minister of Trade and Export Promotion. These individuals bring their unique experiences of resilience, innovation, and commitment to enhancing trade across borders.
MIPAD’s Trade Champions list goes beyond mere recognition; it is a potent call to action. It aims to inspire Africans and their descendants worldwide to harness their entrepreneurial spirit and actively contribute to a prosperous and equitable global economy.
This recognition by MIPAD is a significant milestone in highlighting the vital role that people of African descent play in the global economy. It emphasizes the importance of their contributions and serves as a reminder of the untapped potential within the African diaspora. By showcasing these role models, MIPAD aims to encourage more Africans and people of African descent to pursue their entrepreneurial ambitions and take active roles in shaping the economic future.
In conclusion, the MIPAD’s list of “Trade Champions of African Descent Worldwide” is a powerful acknowledgement of the influential roles played by Africans and their descendants in the global economic landscape. Their achievements are not only a source of pride for the African continent but also serve as a beacon of inspiration for future generations to aspire towards economic leadership and innovation. As the world increasingly recognizes the importance of diversity in driving economic growth, MIPAD’s initiative sets a precedent in celebrating and encouraging the contributions of Africans and their descendants in shaping the future of global trade.
