the kemet boutros-ghali foundation for peace and knowledge awarded its annual prize to mozambican activist, politician, and human rights advocate graça machel, the widow of the late south african leader nelson mandela, in recognition of her efforts and co

The Kemet Boutros-Ghali Foundation for Peace and Knowledge has awarded its annual prize to Graça Machel, the renowned Mozambican activist, politician, and human rights advocate — and widow of the late South African leader Nelson Mandela — in recognition of her tireless efforts for the African continent.

Mamdouh Abbas, Chairman of the Foundation’s Board of Trustees, presented the award, stating on the occasion:

"Continuing the tradition upheld by the Foundation, today we honor a personality who truly deserves the Foundation’s annual award — a decision unanimously agreed upon by the Board of Trustees — the African freedom fighter and politician Graça Machel."
He emphasized the significant humanitarian contributions of Minister Graça Machel, highlighting her distinguished commitment to peace, justice, and human rights across Africa.

He noted that Graça Machel was unable to attend the ceremony due to the current circumstances in her home country, Mozambique. She delegated her daughter, Josina Machel, to receive the award on her behalf. Josina expressed deep appreciation for the late Dr. Boutros Boutros-Ghali, former Secretary-General of the United Nations, and his enduring legacy of knowledge and service to humanity.

Chairman Abbas further praised Graça Machel’s role alongside the late Nelson Mandela in founding a group dedicated to promoting peace across the African continent, which included a number of prominent figures.

He stressed that it is difficult to summarize Minister Graça Machel’s life in just a few words — from her involvement in Mozambique’s liberation movement, to her tenure as Minister of Education after independence, and her lifelong dedication to defending the rights of women and children.

He also referred to a significant study conducted by Graça Machel on children in armed conflict, commissioned by Dr. Boutros-Ghali during his time at the UN. He underscored the continued relevance of that study today, particularly in light of the dire situation faced by children in Gaza, who are deprived of the basic necessities of life and have been deliberately targeted and killed in the ongoing Israeli aggression.