Morocco names first woman PM Fatima Ezzahra El Mansouri amid coalition talks
Fatima Ezzahra El Mansouri, 50, was appointed Morocco’s first woman prime minister by King Mohammed VI on Tuesday, September 28, 2026, after her centre-right Authenticity and Modernity Party won 97 of 395 seats in last week’s parliamentary election—the lowest turnout in two decades. She will now lead coalition talks to form a government, as no party secured an outright majority, while the king retains broad powers over major policies. El Mansouri, former Marrakech mayor and housing minister, called the appointment 'truly historic' and pledged a programme delivering 5% annual economic growth, 2% inflation and at least one million new jobs over five years to tackle youth unemployment and living costs.
This breakthrough signals progress for women’s leadership across Africa, offering a tangible example for Nigerian women advocating greater political participation. Morocco remains a key African partner in trade, security and migration; its stability and economic policies influence North-African routes that many Nigerians use when seeking work abroad. Observers note that her focus on job creation and inflation control could shape regional economic cooperation, potentially opening new avenues for Nigerian exporters or affecting remittance flows.
Nigerians should watch how coalition negotiations unfold, as any power-sharing deal will affect policy continuity and the pace of reforms. Those interested in gender equality can consider supporting initiatives that emulate Morocco’s step, while businesses may explore trade links in sectors earmarked for growth under the new agenda. Will El Mansouri’s historic premiership inspire more Nigerian women to seek elected office, or will deep‑rooted barriers persist?