100 Most Influential Africans 2025

CGIAR Executive Managing Director, Ismahane Elouafi, has been named one of the 100 most influential Africans by New Africa magazine.

Each year New Africa celebrates business leaders, creatives, public office holders, sportspeople, technologists and opinion formers who are shaping the future of the continent. Dr. Elouafi is one of nine change makers recognized on this year's list. 

The magazine highlights her leadership of CGIAR, as well as her work in advancing agriculture in saline and marginal environments, helping farmers adapt to climate stress and poor soil conditions, and in promoting under utilized crops to improve food security and nutrition, especially in arid regions.

“It is an incredible honor to receive this recognition,” said Dr. Elouafi. “It belongs to the scientists working across the CGIAR system, the funders who support us, and the smallholder farmers we work alongside. As we move into 2026, CGIAR, together with our partners, is committed to scaling agricultural innovations and strengthening food systems across Africa.”