Anita Asmah: First African Woman to Lead a UN Military Unit

The United Nations has chosen Ghanaian Major General Anita Asmah as Head of Mission and Force Commander for the United Nations Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF), making her the first African woman in this post.

On December 11, 2024, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres announced the historic appointment.

The appointment of Major General Asmah is an important step towards achieving gender equality in peacekeeping. Her leadership will oversee the efforts of UNDOF to keep the peace in the Golan Heights, reaffirming the UN's commitment to elevating women in senior positions.

The career of Major General Asmah is a testament to determination and hard work. She attended Aburi Girls' Senior High School and graduated from the University of Ghana with degrees in Arts and Law. She is fluent in English and French and excels on both the national and international levels.

This achievement underscores the rising role of Ghana in global peacekeeping and encourages a new generation of women to pursue leadership positions. Commodore Faustina Anokye, a former UN peacekeeping deputy commander, praised it as an example for Africa and urged other countries to send top women to leadership posts.

The appointment of Major General Asmah paves the path for more diversity in peacekeeping,  indicating a brighter future for women in global leadership positions.