Nairobi, 13 July 2015 – The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) received on Monday the Africa Peace Award, conferred by the United Religions Initiative-Africa (URI-Africa) to distinguished individuals or organizations for efforts towards sustainable peace, environmental protection, development, democracy and good leadership on the continent.
The award has been presented annually since 2007. Its previous recipients include the Archbishop Desmond Tutu, the UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization and the UN Economic Commission for Africa.
After receiving the award on behalf of UNEP, Mr. Mounkaila Goumandakoye noted that while environmental issues are science based, they are also fundamentally ethical.
“UNEP will continue to work with URI and all stakeholders groups to advance the vision of our common future and work to ensure sustainable and inclusive use of the natural capital, peace and prosperity to all nations,” he said.
Presenting the award, Ambassador Mussie Hailu, the Regional Director and Representative of URI to the African Union, said: "This award is an acknowledgment of UNEP's leadership in the promotion of environmental science and information, development of international environmental law, advocacy of environmental concerns within the international system and its effort to nurture partnerships with other UN bodies possessing complementary skills and delivery capabilities as well as enhancing the participation of the private sector, the scientific community, NGOs, youth, women, and sports organizations in the achievement of sustainable development and the preservation of environment.”
About the Africa Peace Award
The Africa Peace Award is presented annually to individuals or organizations whose leadership and policies reflect courage, initiative, and creativity that help to create peace and a better future for all.
Read another article on the topic on the UNEP website.
