Officially assuming office on June 22, 2026, Dr. Mongbo was appointed by UN Women Executive Director Sima Bahous to lead the organization’s work in the DRC, where she will champion initiatives that promote women’s rights, inclusive governance, and sustainable development.
With decades of experience spanning international development, institutional leadership, and strategic partnerships, Dr. Mongbo brings a wealth of expertise to one of UN Women’s most important country offices on the continent.
A Lifetime Dedicated to Women and Girls
Throughout her career, Dr. Mongbo has been a passionate advocate for the rights of women and girls, gender equality, and youth empowerment.
Recognized for her visionary leadership and strong intercultural expertise, she has successfully designed and implemented impactful programs that have improved the lives of women, young people, and children across Africa. Her work has consistently focused on building inclusive institutions, strengthening partnerships, and creating lasting opportunities for vulnerable communities.
Her ability to bridge governments, civil society, international organizations, and local communities has made her a respected leader in the development sector.
Leading UN Women’s Mission in the DRC
As Country Representative, Dr. Mongbo will oversee the implementation of UN Women’s triple mandate in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Working alongside the United Nations Country Team, she will support the Congolese government’s efforts to advance gender equality while strengthening collaboration with:
- Women’s organizations and civil society groups;
- Technical and financial partners;
- Traditional leaders;
- National institutions committed to women’s rights and inclusive development.
Her leadership will be instrumental in ensuring that women and girls remain at the heart of policies and programs designed to foster peace, economic inclusion, and sustainable development.
An Accomplished African Development Leader
Before her appointment to the DRC, Dr. Mongbo served as UN Women Country Representative in Sierra Leone, where she successfully led initiatives promoting women’s participation in leadership and socio-economic development.
Her distinguished career also includes senior positions with internationally recognized organizations such as:
- World Learning Inc.
- CARE International
- Plan International
- Catholic Relief Services
She has worked across several African countries, including Benin, Ghana, Mali, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the Central African Republic, and Côte d’Ivoire, gaining invaluable experience in complex development and humanitarian contexts.
Academic Excellence Supporting Global Impact
Dr. Mongbo combines practical leadership with a strong academic foundation.
She holds:
- A Ph.D. in Development Economics, Partnership Management, and Performance Management from the Institute of University Pedagogy in Mali;
- A Master of Arts in Sustainable International Development from Brandeis University (United States);
- A Master of Science in Economics from the University of Abomey-Calavi in Benin.
She has further strengthened her expertise through executive training programs delivered by leading institutions, including Harvard Series, CARE Academy, Egerton University in Kenya, and the Golda Meir Mount Carmel International Training Center in Israel. Her areas of specialization include gender, international trade, leadership, monitoring and evaluation, and natural resource management.
Inspiring the Next Generation of African Women Leaders
Dr. Setcheme Jeronime Mongbo’s appointment represents more than a leadership transition—it is a powerful reminder of the growing influence of African women in shaping international development and public policy.
At a time when the Democratic Republic of the Congo continues to face significant challenges related to gender equality and women’s rights, her experience, vision, and commitment offer renewed hope for stronger partnerships and transformative change.
As she begins this new chapter, her leadership reflects the values that Malkia Africa celebrates every day: courage, excellence, service, and the unwavering belief that empowering women is essential to Africa’s future.
Malkia Africa congratulates Dr. Setcheme Jeronime Mongbo on her appointment and wishes her every success as she leads UN Women’s mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
