Cairo, Egypt – Commercial International Bank (CIB), is extending its congratulations to our board member, H.E. Dr. Amani Abou-Zeid, who was re-elected to serve a four-year term as the African Union Commissioner for Infrastructure and Energy, responsible for the energy, transport, tourism, and information communications technology (ICT) sectors. Abou-Zeid triumphed over her competitors in a sweeping victory, receiving votes from 50 out of 55 African Union member states. This achievement highlights Abou Zeid's successful tenure as the AU Commissioner for Infrastructure and Energy from 2017 to 2021, and her efficient handling of development projects in African countries.
The re-election of Abou-Zeid was announced on Saturday by Egypt's Ambassador to Ethiopia, Osama Abdel Khalek, who is also the permanent envoy of Egypt to the African Union (AU).
The African Union Commission (AUC) is the AU's secretariat and undertakes the day to day activities of the Union. The AUC is composed of a chairperson, deputy chairperson, eight commissioners, plus staff. The Department of Infrastructure and Energy leads the implementation of Agenda 2063 infrastructure programs and the AU's activities to promote, coordinate, implement, and monitor programs and policies on infrastructure development, transport, energy resources, ICT, postal services, and tourism at the regional and continental levels.
"Dr. Abou-Zeid sets a wonderful example for women in STEM and is an exceptional leader and decision maker," said Mr. Hussein Abaza, CIB's CEO and board member. "CIB is honored to have such a champion of gender equality and women empowerment on our Board, and we are pleased Dr. Abou-Zeid is recognized for her outstanding leadership."
For more than 30 years, Abou-Zeid has served in leadership positions in international organizations and has amassed a remarkable mix of experience from across continents and stakeholders. She has managed large and complex development programs, including the largest operations portfolio of the African Development Bank (AfDB).
An Egyptian national, Abou-Zeid has a multi-disciplinary education, receiving numerous degrees, including Electrical Engineering, Cairo University; MBA, French University for African Development (Université Senghor); MPA, Harvard University; and Ph.D. Social and Economic Development, The University of Manchester.
Abou-Zeid has received numerous international awards and recognition for her leadership and excellence, including the honor of "Officier de l'Ordre de Wissam Alaouite" from His Majesty King Mohamed VI of Morocco and was recognized as a World Young Leader by the European Union.
She is also a member of the prestigious Global Leaders Broadband Commission for Sustainable Development and the Stewardship Board for System Initiative on Shaping the Future of Energy.