Mawuena Trebarh facts for kids

Mawuena Adzo Trebarh (born Dumor) was a talented Ghanaian business leader and geologist. She was born on April 12, 1971, and passed away on April 11, 2024. Mawuena made history as the first woman to lead the Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC). She also became the first female underground exploration geologist in a mine. This was a huge achievement, as she worked among 10,000 men in the Ashanti Region. She was also the first female Board Chair of Movenpick Ambassador Hotel Ghana. Mawuena worked in both private companies and for the government.

Early Life and Education

Mawuena was born in Ghana. Her father, Ernest Dumor, was a retired professor of sociology. Her mother, Cecilia Dumor, was an educator and publisher. Mawuena's maternal grandfather, Philip Gbeho, composed the National Anthem of Ghana. Her paternal grandfather, Michael Dumor, helped start Catholic education in the Volta Region. Her uncle, Victor Gbeho, was a Ghanaian diplomat.

Mawuena was the oldest of three children. Her brother was the well-known Komla Afeke Dumor from the BBC. Her other brother, Dr. Korshie Dumor, is a doctor in the United States. Mawuena studied Geology and Mining at the University of Jos in Nigeria. She later earned a master's degree in business (MBA) from Bentley College in the U.S.

A Career in Business

Mawuena Trebarh had an impressive career. She worked in many important roles. She helped companies grow and communicated with the public.

Leading Investment in Ghana

Mawuena Trebarh was the first woman to be the Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC). She held this role from 2013 to 2017. Her job was to encourage businesses to invest money in Ghana. During her time, foreign investment grew a lot. The Centre's income also increased significantly under her leadership.

Working with MTN Ghana

From 2007 to 2011, Mawuena worked at MTN Ghana. She was in charge of corporate communications and government relations. She also oversaw the MTN Ghana Foundation. She was the main spokesperson for the company. She helped manage MTN's public image.

Communications at Newmont

Mawuena was the Communications Manager for Newmont Ghana Ltd. from 2003 to 2007. Newmont is one of the world's largest gold producers. She created and managed their public relations strategies in Ghana and across Africa. She made sure the company had a good image. She often talked with the news media and government officials.

Starting as a Geologist

Mawuena began her career in 1996 at Ashanti Goldfields. She was the first female underground exploration geologist. She planned and carried out drilling programs deep underground. She supervised teams of 15 to 20 men. These teams worked more than 1500 meters below the surface.

Later, she worked in the Resource Evaluation Department. She helped create 3D computer models of gold deposits. She also analyzed drilling data. This work helped declare millions of ounces of gold reserves. She also worked as an Investor Relations Officer. In this role, she talked with international investors and stock exchanges.

Personal Life

Mawuena Trebarh was married to Divine Trebarh. He was a Flight Lieutenant in the Ghana Armed Forces. They had a daughter named Katherine Joy. Mawuena believed in changing business practices in Ghana. She also wanted more women to have important roles in work and media. Mawuena Trebarh passed away on April 11, 2024, at the age of 52.

Awards and Recognition

Mawuena received several awards for her hard work and leadership:

• Millennium Leadership Forum Award: For her excellent work in trade investment.
• National Youth Role Model Award: For being a role model and youth leader.