Ameenah Gurib-Fakim
Ameenah Gurib-Fakim – Scientist, Entrepreneur & Former President of Mauritius
Ameenah Gurib-Fakim is a renowned scientist, entrepreneur, and former President of Mauritius (2015–2018), widely recognized for her contributions to biotechnology, sustainable development, and women’s empowerment in STEM. A pioneering figure in the intersection of science, business, and policy, she has played a critical role in fostering innovation-driven economic growth in Mauritius and beyond.
Scientific Leadership & Innovation
- Biotechnology & Alternative Medicine
Gurib-Fakim is a leading expert in ethnobotany and phytochemistry, with a focus on exploring Africa’s rich biodiversity for pharmaceutical and cosmetic applications. She has actively promoted alternative medicine and sustainable bio-based industries as key drivers for economic diversification. - Entrepreneurship & Industry Development
Beyond academia, she has worked to bridge the gap between science and business, advocating for biotech-driven industries in Mauritius. Through her initiatives, she has helped position Mauritius as a hub for scientific research, innovation, and entrepreneurship.
Global Influence & Advocacy
- Research & International Collaborations
Committed to advancing scientific research, she has been involved in global partnerships to boost funding for research institutions in Africa, particularly in biotechnology, environmental sustainability, and climate resilience. - Women in STEM
As one of the most influential female scientists from Africa, she has been a strong advocate for gender equality in STEM. She continues to mentor and support initiatives aimed at encouraging women to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. - Sustainability & Policy Impact
With a deep commitment to sustainability, she has influenced policymaking on climate change, biodiversity conservation, and green economic strategies. Her vision aligns with the global agenda for sustainable development and innovation-driven economic resilience.
Legacy & Ongoing Contributions
Even after her tenure as Mauritius’s first female President, Ameenah Gurib-Fakim remains a thought leader and global advocate for science-driven economic transformation, continuously working to shape the future of biotechnology, sustainability, and female empowerment in Africa.