Ismahane Elouafi

Ismahane Elouafi, born in August nineteen seventy-one, is a distinguished Moroccan geneticist who currently serves as the Executive Managing Director of CGIAR. With a remarkable career spanning nearly two decades, she has made significant contributions to agricultural research and development across Asia, Africa, and the Middle East.

Prior to her current role, Elouafi was the Chief Scientist at the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO). Her expertise and dedication have earned her a place among the twenty most influential women in science within the Islamic world, highlighting her impact on the field.

Elouafi is internationally recognized for her pioneering work in promoting neglected and underutilized crops, advocating for the use of non-fresh water in agriculture, and empowering women in science. Her leadership at the International Center for Biosaline Agriculture (ICBA) in Dubai from two thousand twelve to two thousand twenty further solidified her reputation as a leader in agricultural innovation.

In two thousand twenty-five, her influence was acknowledged when Time magazine named her one of the world's one hundred most influential people, a testament to her commitment to advancing science and agriculture.