15 interesting facts about Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, the first female president of Liberia and Africa

First Female African President: Ellen Johnson Sirleaf made history in 2005 when she became the first female elected head of state in Africa. She served as the 24th president of Liberia from 2006 to 2018.

Nobel Peace Prize Laureate: In 2011, Sirleaf was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize along with Leymah Gbowee and Tawakkol Karman for their nonviolent struggle for the safety of women and for women’s rights to full participation in peace-building work.

Harvard Education: Sirleaf holds a Master’s degree in Public Administration from Harvard University. She also attended several universities, including the University of Liberia, before leaving for further studies in the United States.

The “Iron Lady” of Africa: Sirleaf is often referred to as the “Iron Lady” of Africa due to her strong leadership style and her efforts in rebuilding Liberia after years of civil war.

Political Prisoner: In the 1980s, Sirleaf was imprisoned for her opposition to the military regime of Samuel Doe. She was accused of treason and spent several months in jail before being released.

A Banker Before Politics: Prior to her presidency, Sirleaf worked as an economist and banker for major institutions, including the World Bank and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).

Liberia’s First Female Finance Minister: Before becoming president, Sirleaf served as Liberia’s Finance Minister under President Charles Taylor. She helped stabilize Liberia’s finances in the 1980s, though her tenure was cut short by political turmoil.

Exiled During Civil War: During Liberia’s civil war, Sirleaf was forced into exile in the United States, where she continued to advocate for peace in Liberia. She returned in 2005 after Taylor’s regime fell.

Champion of Women’s Rights: As president, Sirleaf was an advocate for women’s empowerment, education, and health. She helped pass laws aimed at protecting women from domestic violence and expanding their role in politics.

A Survivor of the Civil War: Sirleaf’s presidency came after the brutal 14-year civil war in Liberia. She worked to rebuild the nation, which included efforts at reconciliation and national healing.

Reelected for a Second Term: In 2011, Sirleaf was reelected for a second term after winning a hard-fought election, securing a strong mandate to continue her reform agenda.

Economic Growth Under Her Leadership: Under Sirleaf’s leadership, Liberia’s economy grew, despite the country facing significant challenges like rebuilding infrastructure, education, and healthcare systems.

Awarded Multiple Honors: Sirleaf has received several prestigious awards and honors for her leadership, including the 2017 Presidential Medal of Freedom from the United States, one of the highest civilian honors.

Focus on Education and Health: Sirleaf prioritized rebuilding Liberia’s education system and expanding access to healthcare, especially for women and children, and she is credited with reducing the country’s maternal mortality rate.

Peace After War: Sirleaf is recognized for her role in securing peace after Liberia’s devastating civil war. She worked with various factions and the international community to achieve stability and helped Liberia transition into a post-conflict nation.

These facts highlight Ellen Johnson Sirleaf’s profound impact on Liberia and Africa as a whole, both as a leader and as a symbol of perseverance, equality, and peace.