AYV News, October 19, 2023
Chidi Blyden, of Sierra Leonean descent, has assumed the role of Deputy Chief Executive Officer (CEO) at the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC).
Blyden joined the MCC as the next Deputy Chief Executive Officer, from the United States Department of Defense, where she most recently served as the Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for African Affairs, and the Principal Advisor on International Security Strategy and Policy Issues across the continent.
“Two-thirds of MCC’s programs are in Africa,” said CEO Alice Albright. “Not only will Chidi bring tremendous expertise and depth of experience in the region, but her inclusive, people-oriented leadership style will be an excellent match as this agency continues to lean-in and step-up its ambition following twenty years of excellence.”
Blyden’s distinguished career has spanned government, academia, and non-profit sectors and her work has focused on the impact of culture in developing policy and community-centric approaches to security and stability, with a particular emphasis on underscoring the critical role of women and youth.
She has received multiple awards for her time in public service, including the Office of the Secretary of Defense Medal for Exceptional Public Service.
“I am thrilled to join the dynamic MCC team as they continue to lead the way on innovative development programs and partner alongside governments to promote economic growth,” said Blyden.
“MCC’s ambitious agenda to align U.S. and global interests in the 21st century world requires a collaborative approach, working hand-in-hand with governments and the private sector to establish holistic, whole-of-society solutions that foster prosperity worldwide.”
The Millennium Challenge Corporation is an independent U.S. government agency working to reduce global poverty through economic growth.
Created in 2004, MCC provides time-limited grants and assistance to countries that meet rigorous standards for good governance, fighting corruption and respecting democratic rights.
