The Graça Machel Trust has announced the appointment of Aishah N. Ahmad, CFA, OFR, as the new Chair of its Expert Leaders’ Group (ELG), a high-level network of senior women leaders shaping Africa’s financial architecture.
Ahmad, a global finance and governance leader, expressed deep appreciation for the opportunity to lead the ELG, which brings together central bank governors, deputy governors, regulators, and financial sector executives from across the continent. The group plays a pivotal role in strengthening the systems and institutions that influence economic outcomes for women in Africa.
She extended special thanks to Graça Machel for her confidence and guidance during the leadership transition, and acknowledged the outgoing leaders, Dr. Tukiya Kankasa-Mabula and Mathabo Makenete, for laying a strong foundation for the group’s work.
Looking ahead to 2026, Ahmad outlined her priorities for the ELG, emphasizing a shift from advocacy to measurable results. Key focus areas include enhancing the group’s regional visibility, promoting gender-intentional financial systems through data and accountability, and deepening collaboration across the Trust’s networks.
Ahmad reaffirmed her commitment to working closely with the ELG Secretariat, its members, and the broader Graça Machel Trust community to drive policies that translate into tangible progress for women across Africa’s financial sector.
“Onwards,” she said, signaling a new chapter for the organisation’s efforts to advance inclusive economic systems on the continent.
