Christine Ghati, a Kenyan activist, has received an international award in recognition of her community empowerment projects.
In a statement released by The International Alliance of Women(TIAW) on Tuesday, November 2, Ghati was recognized for championing women’s empowerment in her community in Kuria, Migori County.
The award organizers went ahead to add that Ghati had done a commendable job as an anti- Female Genital Mutilation activist.
"The International Alliance of Women announces that the World of Difference award, community category goes to Christine Ghati. Ghati is an anti-Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) activist in Kenya with over 9 years of experience.
"In 2018, she founded Safe Engage Foundation (SEF) which has engaged over 60 youth in leading conversations about ending FGM and child marriages," read the statement.
Notably, her initiatives of creating job opportunities for women were recognized, with the activist starting an art and craft business that employs women in Kuria.
"Through SEF, she has trained and empowered over 70 women with skills including making shaggy mats, vases as well as home and office flowers using old magazines and liquid soap.
"This year, SEG will launch a banana stem processing unit which will use the banana fiber to manufacture sacks, ropes, and bags as well as carpets and blankets with blended cotton. The business will employ 20 women with hundreds of others serving as raw material suppliers from the banana trees in their house yards," read the statement in part.
On her part, Ghati stated that it was an honor to be recognized, adding that the award would serve as a motivation to continue with her noble initiatives.
"Honored to be a recipient of 2021 TIAW World of Difference Award community category by The International Alliance for Women. This serves as motivation to ensure women are reached and are able to use their skills to earn income and make informed choices," she stated.
The World Difference award is organised by TIAW to recognize individuals who have engaged in the economic empowerment of women all over the world.
This was not the first time that the activist received global recognition for her initiatives. In 2015, Ghati was recognised as a Queen's Young Leader, an award that is organised by the Royal Family.
On the other hand, Kenyans have joined the international community in commending the activist for representing the country on the global stage.
"A huge congratulations to you Christine! I hope this adds a sixth gear to your momentum to do what needs to be done to better the lives of those close and around you," Global Media Campaign tweeted.
