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

Chairman of the Board
Jean Narcisse Djaha, PhD

Founding President, African Council on Foreign Relations

Board Member
Hon. Calherbe Monel

Board Member & Executive Committee Vice-Chair

Board Member
Prof. Andrew Defor

Executive Director of Policy & Government Relations, Center for Global Health Security & Diplomacy

Founding Board Member
Prof. Gbadedo Odularu, PHD, FAPH

President & CEO, No Hunger Food Bank & Professor, Howard University

Founding Board Member
Prof. Chimezie Anyakora

Chief Executive Officer, Bloom Public Health

Founding Board Member
Kate Warren

Journalist, Global Media Executive & Executive Vice President, Devex

Founding Board Member & Media Partnership Committee
Anne Marie Dias Borges

Journalist and Global Media Executive

Founding Board Member
Dr. Olusoji A. Akomolafe

Board Member & Professor of International Relations, Norfolk State University

Board Member
Selima Henock

Journalist and Global Media Executive, Namibia Broadcasting Corporation

Board Member
Magistrat Rebecca LUC

Seasoned Haitian Judge

Board Member
Zeba Abdoulaye

Ivorian Technology Entrepreneur

Board Member
Prof. Joseph Nnanna, PhD

Chief Economist, Development Bank of Nigeria

Board Member
Tsegaye Wondwossen

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

Board Member
Lisa Russell

Journalist and Global Media Executive, Founder of Create20230

Board Member
Dr. Ahmat Khazalt ACYL, PhD

International Consultant, Academic Researcher & Lecturer & Former Minister of Education of Chad

Board Member
Mike Pope

Senior Corporate Advisor

Board Member
Dr. Ruth Namatovu, PhD

Seasoned Journalist and Peace Security for Africa

Board Member
Prof. Andrew Defor, PhD

External Relations

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