New Delhi, Jan 21 (NationPress) Graca Machel, the former Education and Culture Minister of Mozambique and a renowned humanitarian, has been honored with the Indira Gandhi Prize for Peace, Disarmament and Development for this year.

This prestigious award highlights her contributions as a distinguished African stateswoman and humanitarian, while also celebrating her unwavering commitment to the protection of human rights in Mozambique.

The announcement was made by the International Jury, led by Shivshankar Menon, who previously served as India's National Security Advisor and Foreign Secretary, as stated in an official release from the Indira Gandhi Memorial Trust.

“The Indira Gandhi Prize for Peace, Disarmament and Development for 2025 is conferred upon Madam Graca Machel for her groundbreaking initiatives in education, health & nutrition, economic empowerment, and humanitarian efforts under challenging circumstances, inspiring hope in millions to foster a more equitable and just world,” stated the Indira Gandhi Memorial Trust.

Graca Machel was born on October 17, 1945. She attended mission schools and later pursued German studies at the University of Lisbon, where her political awareness regarding independence began to flourish. After returning to Mozambique in 1973, she joined the Mozambican Liberation Front (FRELIMO) as a freedom fighter and educator.

“She has devoted her life to enhancing the lives of marginalized communities by striving for a more just and equitable society for everyone,” the jury remarked.

After attaining independence in 1975, she served as Mozambique’s inaugural Minister of Education and Culture. Her leadership resulted in a significant rise in school enrollment, with primary and secondary participation increasing from 40% to over 90% for boys and 75% for girls.

“Her leadership and contributions to various high-level international organizations have led to transformative socio-economic advancements. She is a founding member of The Elders and has been crucial in establishing Girls Not Brides. Additionally, she is part of the UN Secretary-General’s Sustainable Development Goals Advocacy Group. As the Patron of the Africa Child Policy Forum and Chairperson of the Mandela Institute for Development Studies, she influences policies and actions aimed at supporting children and youth at risk,” the official statement continues.

The jury commended her vital role in fostering social change through both her personal initiatives and academic leadership.

In 2010, she established the Graca Machel Trust, which focuses on women’s economic empowerment, food security, and good governance. She also founded the Zizile Institute for Child Development.

In recognition of her outstanding contributions to women’s and adolescents’ health, she was awarded the WHO Gold Medal, the World Health Organization's highest honor, in 2018.