Kenyan activist Hamisa Zaja has received the prestigious 2024 International Women Building Peace Award from the United States Institute of Peace (USIP).
Zaja, an alumna of the U.S. Department of State’s International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) received the award in recognition of her pursuit of peace and security in Kenya.
In addition, she joined a distinguished list of recipients who have made substantial contributions to peace and security globally.
Her journey as a peacebuilder and human rights defender reflects a remarkable fusion of resilience, empowerment, and sustainable development.
As the founder and chairperson of the Coast Association for Persons with Disabilities in Mombasa, Kenya, she tirelessly works to empower marginalized communities, particularly PWDs.
To illustrate, her commitment is not just limited to the shores of Kenya but extends to a global stage through the IVLP, where she will engage with American counterparts on strategies to empower women and girls worldwide.
As the chairperson of the Mombasa Peace Committee, Zaja played a significant role in facilitating peace meetings and dialogues within the region.
Hamisa Zaja Efforts in Kenya
Equally important, her mediation efforts have led to transformative outcomes, fostering peaceful coexistence and reducing violence in local communities.
Notably, Zaja successfully resolved a land dispute in Kadongo, ensuring fair compensation for those forcibly evicted.
During heightened tensions between the Orma and Pokomo tribes in Tana River in 2012, Zaja’s mediation skills came to the forefront, promoting reconciliation and peace.
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Her ability to navigate complex intergroup conflicts showcases her dedication to building bridges and fostering understanding.
One of her significant areas of focus is providing alternatives to youth vulnerable to recruitment by violent extremist groups.
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Through her efforts, hundreds of youths have been supported in starting their own businesses, reducing their vulnerability to violence.
The Kenyan activist established a resource center in Majengo, offering vocational skills such as computer training, tailoring, and barber training.
This initiative has been instrumental in diverting youths from extremist activities, addressing issues at the grassroots level.
Zaja’s own experience living with a disability has only strengthened her resolve as a human rights defender.
She actively combats teenage pregnancies, female genital mutilation, child marriage, and violence against women through community initiatives.
By raising awareness, challenging harmful practices, and promoting gender equality, Zaja has become a beacon of change, influencing cultural norms and attitudes.
About USIP Peace and Activist Award
USIP received nominations of women peacebuilders from 42 countries.
The finalists were selected by USIP’s Women Building Peace Council, a 15-member group of experts and leaders in the fields of gender and peacebuilding, for their exemplary commitment and leadership as peacebuilding practitioners and their key roles in ending and preventing violent conflict.
Collectively, the finalists Dr. Marie-Marcelle H. Deschamps, Abir Haj Ibrahim, Pétronille Vaweka and Hamisa Zaja represent four countries and an intergenerational group of peacebuilders.
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The Women Building Peace Award by USIP stands out for its focus on women in civil society working on the front lines of conflict.
It recognizes women at the grassroots level who may not have received global recognition for their peacebuilding efforts.
The Women Building Peace Award is given each year to a woman peacebuilder who has made a major contribution to preventing conflict, combatting violence and building peace in her country or region.
Consequently, USIP received more than 150 nominations from 42 countries in 2024.
