Statement on the passing of H.E. Horst Köhler, former president of Germany

03 February, 2025

The Mo Ibrahim Foundation is deeply saddened by the passing of President Horst Köhler, member of the Ibrahim Prize Committee, and a very close friend of the Foundation.

A stout advocate of Africa’s role as a major stakeholder to address global challenges, with a specific attention to Africa’s youth, President Köhler consistently championed the importance of trust in leadership.

In his keynote speech at the 2017 Ibrahim Governance Weekend, he considered the erosion of trust between leaders and citizens as one of the central challenges of our time. He believed that truthful, transparent leadership was key to address the multiplying challenges facing Africa and the world.

President Köhler's career spanned numerous roles, at national and global levels, including serving as Federal President of Germany from 2004-2010; Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF); President of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD); and UN Secretary-General’s Envoy to Western Sahara.

Mo Ibrahim, founder and chair of the Mo Ibrahim Foundation, stated:

"President Köhler was a wise and valuable member of our Foundation family and a great friend of Africa. We will miss his counsel and insight”.

The Mo Ibrahim Foundation extends its condolences to Horst Köhler’s family and friends.

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