Zimbabwean woman wins top US award for work with female prisoners. The International Women of Courage Award also referred to as the US Secretary of State’s International Women of Courage Award, is an American award presented annually by the United States Department of State to women around the world who have shown leadership, courage, resourcefulness, and willingness to sacrifice for others, especially in promoting women’s rights.
Zimbabwean human rights activist and founder of Female Prisoners Support Trust Rita Nyampinga, was one of the 12 winners of the International Woman of Courage (IWOC) Award winners for 2020 by the United States of America government ahead of International Women’s Day on Sunday.
Nyampinga was honoured by the US Secretary of State Michael Pompeo in Washington DC where First Lady Melania Trump was guest of honour. Nyampinga’s citation was read out by Kelley Eckels Currie, who oversees the Secretary’s Office of Global Women’s Issues at the US Department of State.
She said of Nyamupinga
“A steadfast human rights defender and activist, Rita is being honoured for her protection of and respect for the rights of prisoners, especially women in detention, and for fighting for a fair and just legal system in Zimbabwe,” read part of the detention.
Speaking to the Daily News via a telephone interview, Nyampinga said the award was a milestone for Zimbabwe as it places the country in the spotlight in issues concerning human rights.
“When we speak of human rights it should not only be limited to political rights but should also stretch to civil, economic and social rights as well. As Zimbabwe, we are working towards achieving these rights.
“The award shows that Zimbabwe is in the spotlight and can work as one unit to achieve a common goal,” Nyampinga said.
Rita has been spearheading different rehabilitation programmes for female prisoners and ex-convicts in the country while pushing for social, gender and economic justice. She has facilitated the rehabilitation of over 300 ex-convicts to date. First Lady of the US Melania Trump also praised Nyamupinga saying she showed true heroism.
“It is an honour to be here again to celebrate these inspiring women and the incredible impacts they are making through the work they have dedicated themselves to all over the world,” Trump said.
Source – iHarare
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