In a landmark transition that underscores the African Business Angels Network’s (ABAN) commitment to gender equality, the organisation has appointed a predominantly female leadership team as of January 1, 2025. This shift not only reflects ABAN’s dedication to fostering inclusive growth but also aligns seamlessly with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal 5 (SDG 5), which aims to achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls.

The new leadership is spearheaded by Olayemi Keri, co-founder of Rising Tide Africa (RTA), an influential network of over 100 female angel investors operating across Nigeria, South Africa, and other African nations. Her appointment as Chairperson of the ABAN Board marks a significant milestone in the organisation’s history. Joining her is Rebecca Enonchong, co-founder of ABAN, founder of AppsTech and co-founder of the Cameroon Angels Network (CAN), who steps into the role of Deputy Chair. Continuing her impactful tenure, Fadilah Tchoumba remains as Chief Executive Officer and board member, providing continuity and strategic vision.

The board’s composition is further enriched by the inclusion of independent non-executive directors – Elizabeth Howard (South Africa), Hannah Subayi Kamuanga (Democratic Republic of Congo), and Olatokunbo Ige (Togo). These accomplished women, alongside their male counterparts, bring a diverse array of perspectives and expertise to ABAN’s governance.

This leadership transformation is more than a symbolic gesture; it is a tangible manifestation of ABAN’s alignment with SDG 5, particularly Target 5.5, which seeks to ensure women’s full and effective participation and equal opportunities for leadership at all levels of decision-making in political, economic, and public life. By elevating women to its highest echelons, ABAN exemplifies the integration of gender equality into organisational leadership, setting a precedent within Africa’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.

The significance of this development extends beyond ABAN. Africa has witnessed a growing recognition of the pivotal role women play in economic development. Initiatives such as the UN Global Compact’s Africa Business Leaders Coalition have called for greater private sector action to advance gender equality across the continent.

Despite these efforts, challenges persist. As of recent studies, women hold only 12.7% of board seats across 307 listed companies in 12 African nations, highlighting the underrepresentation of women in corporate leadership. Countries like Kenya lead with 19.8% female board representation, while others lag behind, underscoring the need for continued advocacy and structural change.

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