Murimirwa, CAMFED Win Seoul Peace Prize

The Seoul Peace Prize Cultural Foundation has announced that Angeline Murimirwa and CAMFED International have been chosen as co-recipients of the 18th Seoul Peace Prize. The foundation commended both recipients for their efforts to promote women's right to education, enhance their economic independence, and increase their social participation.

These efforts have significantly contributed to reducing social inequality caused by poverty and gender discrimination. The foundation noted that the recipients have created a "multiplier effect of education" by sending one girl to school, fostering her into a community leader, and empowering her to support the next generation. Angeline Murimirwa, born in a rural area of Zimbabwe in 1980, faced the possibility of dropping out of secondary education due to poverty.

However, with the support of CAMFED, she was able to continue her studies. She later co-founded CAMFED Association with more than 400 CAMFED-supported students, creating a cycle of empowerment where educated women assist younger girls in accessing schooling. Murimirwa's dedication led her to become the Chief Executive Officer of CAMFED International in 2023.

Following the news of the award, she stated, "Creating a world where every young person can realize their own worth and has the opportunity to shape their future is the path to sustainable peace." Established in 1990, the Seoul Peace Prize aims to honor the spirit of peace from the Seoul Olympic Games. Previous recipients have included notable figures like former UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon and former German Chancellor Angela Merkel.

The prize has gained international recognition, with four recipients, including Ban Ki-moon, subsequently winning the Nobel Peace Prize after receiving the Seoul Peace Prize. The 18th Seoul Peace Prize ceremony is scheduled to take place in Seoul in November, with each co-recipient receiving a prize of $100,000.