AFCAC Secretary-General Adefunke Adeyemi Adopts New Name, AdeSewa

Adefunke Adeyemi has adopted AdeSewa Adeyemi as her new name, marking four years at the helm of the African Civil Aviation Commission. She announced the change in a personal statement and described it as a reflection of how her identity has evolved.

“​​AdeSewa represents a version of me that feels more aligned with who I am today. We are constantly evolving through experience, growth and the different seasons of life. Sometimes, we arrive at a point where we recognise a version of ourselves that feels more true, more intentional and more aligned,” she said.

The announcement coincides with her fourth anniversary as AFCAC secretary-general. She took office in September 2022 and later won reappointment to another three-year term. Under her leadership, the continental aviation body has focused on safety, security, connectivity and environmental sustainability, while advancing the Single African Air Transport Market across the African Union’s 55 member states.

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AdeSewa represents a version of me that feels more aligned with who I am today. We are constantly evolving through experience, growth and the different seasons of life. Sometimes, we arrive at a point where we recognise a version of ourselves that feels more true, more intentional and more aligned.

Adeyemi brings more than 25 years of experience in aviation, law, trade, transportation, sustainability and international development. Before joining AFCAC, she held senior regional positions at the International Air Transport Association, working extensively on African aviation policy and connectivity. Her career also included efforts to advance the Single African Air Transport Market and advocacy that helped secure more than $2 billion in airline funds trapped in some African markets. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she took part in industry advocacy supporting about $3 billion in financial relief and policy measures for African aviation.

Her work beyond aviation includes leadership, writing and social-impact initiatives. She wrote “Singular: Living Your Best Life,” co-founded Female Initiatives for Impact, and established Africa 54/7 to promote African stories, ideas, opportunities and possibilities. “I have always been drawn to creating and building. Whether it is an institution, an idea, a platform or an opportunity for others, I want the work to transcend the immediate moment and carry lasting meaning,” she said.

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I have always been drawn to creating and building. Whether it is an institution, an idea, a platform or an opportunity for others, I want the work to transcend the immediate moment and carry lasting meaning.