Euphrasie Kouassi Yao has been named the recipient of the 2026 Harambee Prize for the promotion of equality for African women. The award was presented to her on March 4, 2026, in Madrid, Spain. This prize recognizes more than thirty-five years of commitment to peace, equal opportunities, and the empowerment of women in Africa.

Originally from Bouaké, Côte d’Ivoire, she is among the leading voices of women’s leadership on the continent. After earning a scientific baccalaureate, the Ivorian minister pursued studies in geography at the former National University of Côte d’Ivoire. Euphrasie obtained a teaching degree in secondary education in 1987 and then the CAPES (a competitive teaching certification) in 1989. In 2013, she furthered her education with a Master’s degree in Gender and Development.

The laureate began her career as a history and geography teacher at the Sainte-Marie High School in Abidjan. Subsequently, Euphrasie Kouassi Yao turned her attention to public policies related to gender equality. She notably held the positions of National Director of Equality and Gender Promotion, and then Technical Advisor at the Ministry for Women.