Eight Ghanaian women recognised among Africa’s top Female Finance Leaders
By Rebecca Okine
Eight Ghanaian women have been recognised in the 2025 edition of Avance Media’s 100 African Female Finance Leaders Ranking, highlighting the growing influence of women in Africa’s financial sector.
The honourees are Abena Osei-Poku, Abiola Bawuah, Josephine Ankomah, Maame Dufie Achampong-Kyei Obeng, Mansa Nettey, Dr Naomi Wolali Kwetey, Patience Akyianu and Victoria Kwakwa.
Nigeria led the ranking with 18 honourees, followed by Kenya with nine, while Ghana and South Africa recorded eight each.
The list demonstrates the increasing depth of female leadership in finance and the expanding opportunities for women across African economies.
Avance Media’s annual ranking celebrates outstanding women shaping Africa’s financial landscape.
The 2025 edition featured leaders from 31 countries, recognising women who have excelled in their careers while mentoring the next generation in a traditionally male-dominated sector.
The honourees hold a range of positions, including Chairpersons, CEOs, Managing Directors, Founders and senior executives at leading financial institutions across Africa and globally.
Their expertise spans banking, insurance, fintech, governance, investments and trade, underscoring the breadth of women’s contributions to the continent’s growing financial ecosystem.
Notably, the 2025 ranking highlights the significant presence of women in leadership at continental giants Ecobank Group and UBA Group, which accounted for nine and five honourees respectively.
The list also features six female Central Bank Governors and nine female Finance and Development Ministers, reflecting women’s growing influence in economic governance at both national and continental levels.
The selection process followed standardised criteria, including holding a C-Suite or equivalent leadership role, demonstrating leadership excellence and making measurable contributions to local and continental economies.
Prince Akpah, Founder and Managing Director of Avance Media, acknowledged the rising contribution of women to Africa’s financial sector, noting: “African women are on the rise in the finance sector, contributing in diverse and significant ways across the continent. Through their resilience, innovation and leadership, they are not only breaking barriers but also shaping the future of finance in Africa.”
