Biography

Ambassador Nolufefe Marilyn Dwabayo is an accomplished South African diplomat and technocrat with decades of experience navigating the complexities of African and international politics. Having served in pivotal roles across South Africa, Ethiopia, Singapore, and Equatorial Guinea, she is renowned for her expertise in bridging cultural, political, and economic divides. 

Her remarkable career has placed her at the heart of high-stakes negotiations, including conflict management dialogues for Burundi, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Sudan, and South Sudan. With a remarkable ability to untangle complex geopolitical dynamics, she delivers practical strategies for fostering peace and cooperation on a global scale. 

She has served as a drafting committee member for the White Paper on Foreign Policy and International Relations, as well as the White Paper on the Establishment of the National Office for Coordination of Peace Missions (NOCPM). Her leadership extends to serving on critical committees, including the DIRCO Recruitment Committee (CADETS’ Programme), the Bid Adjudication Committee, and the Joint Task Force (JTT) on Peace and Security Issues. Additionally, she has represented South Africa in key roles, such as Chairperson and participant in the SADC Committee of Senior Officials of the AU, demonstrating her commitment to fostering peace and regional security. 

Beyond diplomacy, Ambassador Dwabayo embodies resilience and hope. As a widow and single mother of three by the age of 31, she turned profound personal loss—including the heartbreaking death of her son to cancer—into a source of strength and inspiration. She now empowers women and mothers to transform adversity into opportunities for growth and impact. 

Whether dissecting Africa’s intricate conflict climates or championing gender equity, Ambassador Dwabayo blends her personal journey with professional expertise to inspire and drive meaningful change. Her talks resonate with governments, organizations, and individuals, offering clear strategies to build inclusive and hopeful futures.