A British Nigerian woman, NneNne Iwuji-Eme, has made history as the first British Black female career diplomat to be appointed High Commissioner. Iwuji-Eme, who has been at the UK Foreign Office for 16 years, will in July 2018 resume her new role as British High Commissioner to Mozambique.
Remarking on the advancement, Iwuji-Eme said:
“I hope my appointment as the first British Black female career diplomat to this position will inspire young talents, regardless of race or background, to pursue their ambitions in the Foreign Office. I look forward to forging even stronger connections between Britain and Mozambique—two close members of the Commonwealth family.”
During her 16-year stay in the Foreign Office, Iwuji-Eme took up roles ranging from economic adviser for Africa to chief press officer to the Africa minister. She has also worked as an economist at the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs and for Royal Dutch Shell. Her most recent posting was to Brazil as First Secretary of Prosperity and Acting Prosperity Consul.
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Congratulations to NneNne Iwuji-Eme on being appointed as the next British High Commissioner to the #Mozambique in succession to @HCJKuenssberg. Ms Iwuji-Eme will take up her appointment in Maputo end of July. #UKinMoz @foreignoffice @CateTurton @DFID_Moz pic.twitter.com/y0VWzJENuS
— UK in Mozambique (@UKinMozambique) March 22, 2018
Born to Nigerian parents of Igbo heritage who worked for the United Nations in Cornwall, England, NneNne Iwuji-Eme has a degree in economics from the University of Manchester.