Ameenah Gurib-Fakim, born on October 17, 1959, is a Mauritian biodiversity scientist and entrepreneur who served as the President of Mauritius from June 5, 2015, to March 23, 2018. She made history as the first female president of Mauritius and one of the few female heads of state in Africa at the time.
Ameenah Gurib-Fakim’s presidency was unique in that she held the position of non-executive president, meaning that her role was largely ceremonial, with executive powers vested in the Prime Minister and the Cabinet. However, despite her primarily symbolic role, Gurib-Fakim used her platform to advocate for various causes, including science, education, and environmental conservation.
Before her presidency, Ameenah Gurib-Fakim had a distinguished career in academia and scientific research. She earned a Ph.D. in organic chemistry from the University of Exeter in the United Kingdom and later served as a lecturer and researcher at the University of Mauritius. She also held various leadership positions in academia and scientific organizations, both nationally and internationally.
As President of Mauritius, Ameenah Gurib-Fakim focused on promoting science, technology, and innovation as drivers of economic development and sustainable growth. She advocated for increased investment in research and development, as well as initiatives to foster entrepreneurship and innovation in Mauritius.
Gurib-Fakim also emphasized the importance of education and lifelong learning in preparing Mauritians for the challenges of the 21st century. She supported programs aimed at improving access to quality education, promoting STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) education, and empowering youth through skills development and training.
In addition to her advocacy for science and education, Ameenah Gurib-Fakim was passionate about environmental conservation and biodiversity protection. She raised awareness about the importance of preserving Mauritius’ unique natural heritage and advocated for sustainable development practices that would safeguard the environment for future generations.
Despite her relatively short tenure as president, Ameenah Gurib-Fakim left a lasting impact on Mauritius through her advocacy for science, education, and environmental conservation. She was widely respected both domestically and internationally for her leadership and commitment to advancing the interests of Mauritius and its people.
