8 Countries With Women Leading Their Governments

The ascent of female leaders marks an important milestone in the struggle for gender equality. These women are transforming political landscapes, emphasizing the value of gender inclusion in government. Their accomplishments motivate women around the world to pursue leadership positions.

Here are the eight female leaders who rule in these countries.

1. Sahle-Work Zewde, President of Ethiopia


Sahle-Work Zewde, an Ethiopian politician and diplomat, became the country’s first female president. On October 25, 2018, the Federal Parliamentary Assembly elected her unanimously. Her career began with natural science studies in France. Sahle-Work works for inclusivity and empowerment in Ethiopian politics, having served as ambassador to Senegal, Djibouti, and France, as well as at UNESCO and the African Union. Her leadership represents development and inspires women across Africa.

 

2. Sandra Mason, President of Barbados.

Dame Sandra Prunella Mason, a Barbadian politician, lawyer, and diplomat, became the country’s first female president on November 30, 2021, and declared it a republic. Her vast career includes serving as a High Court judge, chairing the CARICOM commission, and becoming the first woman admitted to the Barbados Bar. She is a symbol of change in Caribbean politics and a champion of gender equality.

 

3. Victoire Tomegah Dogbé, Prime Minister of Togo

Victoire Sidémého Dzidudu Dogbé Tomegah, a Togolese politician, became the country’s first female prime minister on September 28, 2020. Prior to her appointment, she held significant ministerial positions centered on grassroots development and youth empowerment. Victoire’s leadership exemplifies perseverance and commitment to gender diversity, setting the path for women in government while also demonstrating Togo’s progress toward equality and empowerment.

 

4. Võ Thị Ánh Xuân, Acting president of Vietnam.

Võ Thị Ánh Xuân, interim President of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam since March 21, 2024, exemplifies endurance and dedication to public duty. She rose through the ranks of the Communist Party of Vietnam, eventually becoming its first vice president, proving her leadership talents and commitment to the party’s values. Her responsibility entails navigating difficult geopolitical factors while guaranteeing Vietnamese stability and progress.

 

5. Robinah Nabbanja, Prime Minister of Uganda.

On June 21, 2021, Ugandan educator and politician Robinah Sidémého Dzidudu Dogbé Tomegah became Uganda’s first female Prime Minister, making history. Prior to her nomination, she held key ministerial positions centered on grassroots development and youth empowerment. Her leadership exemplifies endurance and growth, leading the way for women in government while emphasizing Uganda’s commitment to gender equality and inclusivity.

 

6. Dina Boluarte, President of Peru.

Dina Ercilia Boluarte Zegarra, a Peruvian politician and lawyer, became the country’s first female president on December 7, 2022. Before becoming president, she was the first vice president and minister at the Ministry of Development and Social Inclusion. Boluarte’s leadership encourages women in Peru and shows the country’s progress toward gender equality in politics, despite confronting hurdles during a politically unstable time. As Peru’s first female leader, she embodies hope and progress while working for neglected populations.

 

7. Christine Kangaloo, President of Trinidad & Tobago

Christine Carla Kangaloo ORTT, a Trinidadian politician, lawyer, and diplomat, became Trinidad and Tobago’s first female president on March 20, 2023. Prior to her president, she was the President of the Senate and held several ministerial positions. Kangaloo’s exceptional career exemplifies Trinidad and Tobago’s commitment to gender equality and women’s leadership development.

 

8. Samia Suluhu Hassan, President of Tanzania

Tanzanian politician Samia Suluhu Hassan became the country’s first female president on March 19, 2021, following the death of her predecessor. She previously served as Vice President from 2015 until 2021. Suluhu has a career in public service, having served as a minister in Zanzibar and a Member of Parliament. He has initiated democratic changes and handled the COVID-19 pandemic. Her historic leadership pushes women across Africa to pursue leadership positions.

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