Maryam Salim is a beacon of leadership, resilience, and impact in global development. A proud Tanzanian, she currently serves as the World Bank Country Director for Eritrea, Ethiopia, South Sudan, and Sudan. With over 25 years of experience in international development, Ms. Salim has carved out a remarkable career built on driving transformative change and fostering strategic partnerships across regions facing some of the world’s most complex development challenges.
Appointed to this pivotal role, Maryam Salim is guiding the World Bank’s mission to support economic growth, enhance macroeconomic stability, and improve the quality of life for millions. Her leadership emphasizes results-driven strategies aimed at strengthening health and education systems, expanding social safety nets, ensuring food and water security, and boosting infrastructure development, including digital connectivity. At the heart of her work is a commitment to building resilience in communities most vulnerable to climate change and socioeconomic instability.
Ms. Salim’s leadership is defined by inclusive dialogue and collaborative problem-solving. She spearheads high-level strategic conversations with governments, development partners, and stakeholders to co-create solutions that are context-specific and impactful. Her ability to bridge policy and action has made her a key figure in shaping more effective and equitable development programs in fragile and conflict-affected settings.
Before taking on her current role, Maryam Salim served as the World Bank Country Manager for Cambodia and Albania, as well as an Advisor in the Office of the Chief Executive Officer and Senior Vice President for Operations. Her journey at the World Bank began in 1998 as a Young Professional, and she has continued to ascend as a respected voice in international development circles.
Maryam Salim holds a Master’s degree in International Economics and International Relations from Johns Hopkins University’s Paul H. Nitze School of Advanced International Studies and a Juris Doctor from Georgetown University. Her impressive academic and professional background uniquely equips her to navigate the intersection of global policy, economics, and social development.
As one of the 100 Reputable Women of African Descent 2025, Maryam Salim exemplifies the power of African leadership on the global stage. Her dedication to economic transformation, equity, and sustainable development continues to uplift communities, shape policy, and inspire a generation of African women and girls to lead with vision and purpose.
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