By Joseph Erunke

The Africa Hub for Innovation and Development, AHFID, in partnership with Women in Public Health Leadership for Africa, Green Girl Africa and Daily Times Nigeria, has unveiled the “Top 25 Women Voices in Development and Public Service,” celebrating outstanding women driving transformative impact across critical sectors in Africa.

The initiative, launched to commemorate the 2026 International Women’s Day, recognises women making measurable contributions in public health, governance, education, climate action and social development.

Speaking during the official virtual unveiling on Wednesday, Managing Partner of AHFID, Dr. Kunle Kakanfo, said the recognition was designed to amplify the visibility of women whose contributions to development and public service often go unnoticed despite their far-reaching impact.

“This recognition is about impact and visibility. Too often, the work of women in development and public service goes unseen. This initiative is about changing that by ensuring these contributions are recognised where it matters,” he stated.

According to the organisers, more than 400 nominations were received from across sectors and subjected to a rigorous selection process before the final 25 honourees emerged based on leadership, innovation and contribution to sustainable development.

The unveiling attracted development experts, media professionals and stakeholders from across Africa, with organisers announcing plans to continue the campaign through individual spotlight features profiling each honouree and their work.

Among the distinguished women honoured are Dr. Margaret Shelleng of the United States Department of State; Dr. Ota Akigbe of eHealth Africa; Dr. Amina Aminu Dorayi of Pathfinder International; Chief Mrs. Moji Makanjuola of the International Society of Media in Public Health; Vivianne Ihekweazu of Nigeria Health Watch;  Chichi Aniagolu Okoye, Regional Director, West Africa, Ford Foundation and

Ojoma Akor – Editor, Health and Science Africa. 

Others include academics, health specialists, social impact leaders, climate advocates and media professionals making significant strides in improving lives and advancing sustainable development across the continent.

AHFID described the recognition as part of its broader commitment to advancing innovation, strategic partnerships and inclusive development across Africa.