H.E. Martha Ama Akyaa Pobee
Assistant Secretary-General for Africa, United Nations
Ghana
H.E. Martha Ama Akyaa Pobee
Avance Media proudly recognizes Her Excellency Martha Ama Akyaa Pobee, a distinguished Ghanaian diplomat, named in the 5th list of 100 Most Influential African Women in 2023. As the Assistant Secretary-General of the United Nations for Africa at the United Nations Secretariat, H.E. Martha Ama A. Pobee exemplifies leadership, dedication, and a remarkable commitment to fostering global collaboration for sustainable development.
Martha Ama Akyaa Pobee, born on 4th September, is a seasoned diplomat with an illustrious educational background. She earned her bachelor’s degree in English and philosophy from the University of Ghana and pursued a master’s degree in development studies with a specialization in Women and Development from the International Institute of Social Studies in The Hague. Her thirst for knowledge led her to study multilateral diplomacy at the Graduate Institute of International and Development Studies (IHEID) and Public Administration at the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA).
Her diplomatic journey commenced within the Ministry for Foreign Affairs, where she served in various capacities. Notably, she was posted in Tel Aviv from 2000 to 2004, showcasing her early commitment to international relations. Subsequently, she assumed the role of Head of Chancery at the Ghanaian Embassy in Washington D.C. from 2006 to 2010, further enriching her experience.
In 2010, Pobee took on the role of Director of the Information and Public Affairs Bureau at the Ministry for Foreign Affairs. Her career reached new heights as she became the Deputy Head of Mission at the Ghana High Commission in Pretoria from 2012 until her historic appointment as Ghana’s first female Permanent Representative to the United Nations in July 2015.
Her tenure at the United Nations was marked by significant achievements. She served as the Chair of the African Group of Ambassadors in New York, Vice-President of the 71st Session of the United Nations General Assembly, Chair of the New York Group of Friends of the African Women Leaders Network, Co-Facilitator of the High-level meeting on Financing for Development 2019, and Co-Chair of the Group of Friends on Gender Parity at the United Nations.
On 21st May 2021, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres appointed Martha Ama Akyaa Pobee as the Assistant Secretary-General for Africa in the Departments of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs and Peace Operations (DPPA-DPO). This appointment marked a crucial phase in her career, emphasizing her commitment to global diplomacy and peacebuilding.
Martha Ama A. Pobee’s contributions extended beyond her role as Permanent Representative. She served as the Chief Director of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, demonstrating her ability to navigate complex diplomatic landscapes. Her responsibilities included playing a pivotal role in conducting consultations for the convening of the High-Level Dialogue on Financing for Development.
Appointed by the President of the United Nations General Assembly, H.E. Maria Fernanda Espinoza Garces, and her Canadian counterpart, H.E. Marc-Andre Blanchard, Martha Ama Akyaa Pobee showcased her leadership skills in conducting consultations critical for the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the Addis Ababa Action Agenda. The high-level event, scheduled for September 2019, aimed to address obstacles, challenges, and emerging topics related to financing for development.
Martha Ama A. Pobee’s expertise and diplomatic finesse were instrumental in assessing progress, identifying challenges, and proposing solutions to ensure the effective implementation of financing for development outcomes. Issues such as the financing gap for the SDGs, debt management and sustainability, climate financing, and addressing the special situation of various regions were among the critical topics addressed during the review process.
Her involvement in the Addis Ababa Action Agenda highlighted her commitment to mobilizing public and private finance for sustainable development. The global financial system’s realignment towards sustainable development objectives remained a key focus, reflecting her dedication to creating an inclusive and transparent financial framework.
In conclusion, Her Excellency Martha Ama Akyaa Pobee’s recognition in Avance Media’s 2023 100 Most Influential African Women list is a testament to her outstanding contributions to diplomacy, sustainable development, and international relations. As a trailblazing diplomat and Assistant Secretary-General of the United Nations for Africa, H.E. Martha Ama A. Pobee has left an indelible mark on the global stage. Her dedication to fostering collaboration, addressing financing challenges, and championing the SDGs underscores her pivotal role in shaping a more sustainable and equitable world.
Martha Ama A. Pobee (H.E.) was named in the 5th list of 100 Most Influential African Women in 2023 by Avance Media.