ACFR Leadership Overview
The African Council for Foreign Relations (ACFR) is guided by a robust leadership structure that includes an Executive Board of Directors, a forthcoming Diplomatic Council, a forthcoming Young Global Leaders Board, a dedicated staff, and active committee members.
Executive Board of Directors: The ACFR Executive Board is composed of distinguished leaders from government, business, and nonprofit sectors. These individuals are deeply committed to supporting the Council’s mission of working alongside African and global allies to shape the future of the African continent. Their leadership ensures strategic alignment and effective governance across all ACFR initiatives.
ACFR Diplomatic Council: Appointed by the President and CEO in consultation with the Executive Board Chairman, members of the ACFR Diplomatic Council include influential career diplomats, officials from African diplomatic missions, and global sector leaders. This council provides strategic insights, expert advice, and key recommendations that help guide ACFR’s work. Additionally, they play a vital role in securing the funding necessary to realize the Council’s vision and mission.
Young Global Leaders Board: The Young Global Leaders Board is a vibrant group of emerging leaders from diverse backgrounds across Africa and the world. These individuals bring fresh perspectives, innovative ideas, and a strong commitment to global collaboration. Their involvement ensures that ACFR remains forward-thinking and responsive to the evolving needs of younger generations and future decision-makers.
ACFR’s leadership structure reflects a commitment to diversity, expertise, and intergenerational collaboration. By engaging senior leaders, diplomats, advisors, and young changemakers, the Council is well-positioned to drive impactful change, foster international partnerships, and shape a sustainable future for Africa.
Executive Board of Directors
The ACFR Executive Board is composed of distinguished leaders from government, business, and nonprofit sectors. These individuals are deeply committed to supporting the Council’s mission of working alongside African and global allies to shape the future of the African continent. Their leadership ensures strategic alignment and effective governance across all ACFR initiatives.

Jean Narcisse Djaha, PhD
Founding President, African Council on Foreign Relations

Hon. Calherbe Monel
Board Member & Executive Committee Vice-Chair

Prof. Andrew Defor
Executive Director of Policy & Government Relations, Center for Global Health Security & Diplomacy

Prof. Gbadedo Odularu, PHD, FAPH
President & CEO, No Hunger Food Bank & Professor, Howard University

Prof. Chimezie Anyakora
Chief Executive Officer, Bloom Public Health

Kate Warren
Journalist, Global Media Executive & Executive Vice President, Devex

Anne Marie Dias Borges
Journalist and Global Media Executive

Dr. Olusoji A. Akomolafe
Board Member & Professor of International Relations, Norfolk State University

Selima Henock
Journalist and Global Media Executive, Namibia Broadcasting Corporation

Magistrat Rebecca LUC
Seasoned Haitian Judge

Zeba Abdoulaye
Ivorian Technology Entrepreneur

Prof. Joseph Nnanna, PhD
Chief Economist, Development Bank of Nigeria

Tsegaye Wondwossen
Journalist and Global Media Executive, Editor in Chief, Addis
Wata Television

Lisa Russell
Journalist and Global Media Executive, Founder of Create20230

Dr. Ahmat Khazalt ACYL, PhD
International Consultant, Academic Researcher & Lecturer & Former Minister of Education of Chad
Mike Pope
Senior Corporate Advisor
Dr. Ruth Namatovu, PhD
Seasoned Journalist and Peace Security for Africa

Prof. Andrew Defor, PhD
External Relations