African Women in Science
4 women in the archive worked for science. They came from different countries and different centuries, but each of them saw a wrong that others accepted and set out to change it. Read their stories to see how the same cause looked from very different lives.
4 women in the archive
ContemporaryAmeenah Gurib-Fakim
Mauritian biodiversity scientist who became the sixth President of Mauritius (2015–2018) and the first woman to hold the office. A world-leading researcher in medicinal plants of the Mascarene Islands, she has bridged science, politics, and advocacy for women and the environment.
ModernAyoka Olufunmilayo Adebambo
First female professor and first Head of the Department of Animal Breeding and Genetics in Nigeria. Her research on livestock improvement and sustainable farming has contributed to food security and agricultural development.
ModernDeborah Enilo Ajakaiye
First female physics professor in Africa and a leading Nigerian geophysicist. Her work in geophysics played an important role in mining and natural resource exploration in Nigeria.
ModernFrancisca Nneka Okeke
First female professor of physics in Nigeria. Her research in space science and ionospheric physics earned international recognition, including the L'Oreal-UNESCO For Women in Science award.