GREENSBORO, N.C. (Aug. 8, 2025) – UNC Greensboro (UNCG) is honored to announce the upcoming visit of H.E Dr. Elsie S. Kanza, Ambassador of the United Republic of Tanzania to the United States of America and Mexico. Her visit underscores UNCG’s growing focus on global research and engagement that addresses critical challenges of our time.
During her visit on Tuesday, Aug. 12, Dr. Kanza will meet with University administrators and faculty, as well as research scholars across disciplines. She will spend time at the newly established UNCG BRIGHT Institute discussing research advances in critical minerals. Her visit will include a featured talk on her career in public service and diplomacy, as well as a moderated discussion titled “Africa and the Future of Global Research: A Conversation with H.E. Dr. Elsie S. Kanza, Ambassador of the United Republic of Tanzania to the U.S. and Mexico” on emerging economic opportunities and challenges facing Tanzania in a rapidly changing global landscape.
Her Excellency Ambassador Kanza brings a wealth of experience in economic development, international relations, and strategic leadership. Prior to her diplomatic appointment, she served as Special Advisor to the President of the World Economic Forum (WEF) and previously held the position of Head of Africa and Executive Committee Member, where she led public-private initiatives for Africa’s growth and development over a decade. In recognition of her impact, the University of Strathclyde awarded her an honorary Doctorate in Business Administration in 2015.
Her earlier public service includes more than 15 years with the Government of Tanzania, where she served as Economic Advisor to the President and held key roles in the Ministry of Finance and the Central Bank.
Ambassador Kanza has received numerous accolades, including being named an Archbishop Tutu Leadership Fellow in 2008, a WEF Young Global Leader in 2011, and one of Forbes’ 50 Most Powerful Women in Africa in 2020. She has also served on several influential boards, including the African Leadership Institute – South Africa, Mercy Corps Europe, The Nature Conservancy Africa Council, and the Uongozi Institute.
Her academic credentials include a Bachelor’s degree obtained from the United States International University – Africa in Business Administration and later graduated with a Master’s degree in finance from the University of Strathclyde, United Kingdom and an MA in Development Economics, Center for Development Economics, Williams College, USA.
This event is part of UNCG’s ongoing commitment to research excellence, community engagement, and economic development. The event is sponsored by the UNCG BRIGHT Institute and the Division of Research and Engagement.
WHO: H.E Dr. Elsie S. Kanza, Tanzanian ambassador to the U.S. and Mexico
WHAT: A visit to the UNCG campus, with a moderated talk: “Africa and the Future of Global Research”
WHEN: Aug. 12., 1:30 p.m.
WHERE: Union Square Campus (124 E. Gate City Blvd.)
H.E Ambassador Dr Kanza will be taking questions following the moderated talk.
Media Contact/RSVP
Brian Clarey, University Communications
336.334.4751
