Diene Keita
1911
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Diene Keita

Diene Keita
Deputy Executive Director, United Nations Population Fund
Guinea

Diene Keita, an esteemed figure in the realm of global health and development, earns her well-deserved place in Avance Media’s 2023 list of 100 Most Influential African Women. With a stellar career spanning over 30 years in international non-profit organizations, Keita’s leadership has left an indelible mark on numerous countries, promoting inclusive growth, gender equality, and global public health.

 

Born on 19 August 1964 in Guinea, Diene Keita embarked on her academic journey at Sorbonne University in Paris. Graduating summa cum laude with a doctorate in law, she further honed her expertise with a Diploma in Advanced Studies in international economics and development law and a master’s degree in economic and social administration.

 

Keita initiated her United Nations career in 1990 with the UNDP in New York City, serving as a Programme Officer. Over the years, she held various programmatic leadership positions, demonstrating her commitment to development and policy change. Notably, she served as UNDP Representative to the African Union and UNECA in Ethiopia.

 

In 2006, Keita transitioned to the UNFPA, where she excelled as a Representative in Mauritania, Benin, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Nigeria. She spearheaded large and complex public health programs, championing women’s empowerment, and youth inclusion, and addressing sexual and reproductive health issues.

 

In June 2018, Diene Keita joined the Guinean Government as the Minister for Cooperation and African Integration. Her strategic partnerships and resource mobilization efforts significantly impacted Guinea’s cooperation with African countries, aligning with global agendas such as the Sustainable Development Goals and AU 2063.

 

In June 2020, Secretary-General António Guterres appointed Keita as the Deputy Executive Director for Programmes at the UNFPA. In this crucial role, she continues her advocacy for global public health, focusing on adolescent and maternal health, gender equality, public policy, and international diplomacy.

 

Diene Keita’s contributions to maternal health and family planning have earned her prestigious awards, including the Commander of the Order of National Merit from the Mauritanian Government and the Commander of the National Order from the Republic of Benin.

 

Diene Keita’s recognition in Avance Media’s 2023 list of 100 Most Influential African Women is a testament to her exceptional leadership and unwavering dedication to global health and development. As a true visionary, passionate advocate, and champion for inclusivity, Keita inspires us all to strive for a world where health, equality, and potential know no bounds. Her legacy resonates as a beacon of hope, guiding us towards a brighter and more equitable future for everyone.

Photo Credit: CIO East Africa