Former Liberian president Ellen Sirleaf-Johnson on Monday became the first woman to win the Mo Ibrahim Prize for Achievement in African Leadership, in
Former Liberian president Ellen Sirleaf-Johnson on Monday became the first woman to win the Mo Ibrahim Prize for Achievement in African Leadership, in recognition of her efforts to rebuild her country following two devastating civil wars. With this, Ellen Sirleaf-Johnson joins Hifikepunye Pohamba of Namibia (2014), Pedro Pires of Cabo Verde (2011), Festus Mogae of Botswana (2008) and Joaquim Chissano of Mozambique (2007) as a Mo Ibrahim Prize Laureate.
Nobel Peace Prize laureate Ellen Sirleaf-Johnson became president in 2006, three years after the second civil war had ended, and was re-elected for a second term in 2011. She took the helm of Liberia when it was completely destroyed by civil war and led a process of reconciliation that focused on building a nation and its democratic institutions. Sirleaf-Johnson left office last year, and has been replaced by President George Weah, a former football champion.
The foundation said Liberia was the only country out of 54 to improve in every category and sub-category of the foundation’s Index of African Governance since 2006. Other categories include safety and rule of law, participation and human rights, sustainable economic opportunity, and human development.
Sudanese-British businessman Ibrahim said he was delighted Sirleaf-Johnson had become the foundation’s first female laureate.
“In very difficult circumstances, she helped guide her nation towards a peaceful and democratic future, paving the way for her successor to follow,” he said.
Winners of the Mo Ibrahim prize receive $5 million over 10 years and $200,000 annually for the rest of their lives. Nelson Mandela became an honorary recipient of the award in 2007. In some years, the award, which was launched in 2006, has not been awarded as no candidate was considered good enough.
