Faith Actors For Justice Awards 2024: CelebratingTrailblazers in Faith-Based Advocacy
By Michelle Makena Mwimbi
The Faith Actors For Justice Awards 2024 ceremony celebrated a remarkable group of individuals and organizations advancing gender justice, community resilience, and faith-based advocacy across Africa. Hosted at the Traveller’s Hotel in Mombasa, the event featured an inspiring keynote speech by Professor Esther Mombo from the School of Theology, whose words set the tone for an unforgettable occasion.

Keynote Address by Professor Esther Mombo
Professor Mombo’s speech eloquently wove together themes of women’s rights, environmental justice, and faith-based advocacy, drawing on the legacy of Wangari Maathai, Kenya’s trailblazing Nobel Laureate. She emphasized how Maathai’s work linked environmental conservation to women’s empowerment, poverty alleviation, and security. “Women’s rights are intertwined with economic, environmental, and social justice, requiring the dismantling of colonial and exploitative practices,” she stated.
Highlighting the power of faith-based approaches, Professor Mugo defined these as rooted in religious principles that promote equality, dignity, and justice. She underscored the importance of interpreting religious texts to challenge patriarchal norms and empower women, further calling for an intersectional and decolonial model of advocacy inspired by Maathai’s legacy.
Professor Mugo also spotlighted Bishop Rose, who initiated community-based tree planting efforts to challenge gender barriers, blending environmental restoration with women’s empowerment. She concluded with a call to action, urging faith leaders and communities to continue breaking down misconceptions and promoting systemic change: “Inclusion is not enough; true change requires transforming existing frameworks.”
Honoring Excellence in Leadership and Advocacy
The ceremony recognized 22 exceptional awardees who demonstrated innovative and impactful approaches to faith-based advocacy. These individuals and organizations have addressed pressing issues such as gender-based violence and youth empowerment.


Awardees and Categories
Leadership
- Ntiranyibagira Louise – Burundi Faith Women Network
- Saumu Mwinyi – Kenya Muslim Youth Alliance (KMYA)
- Nejat Mehdi Oumer – Ethiopian Interfaith Forum for Development, Dialogue, and Action (Women of Faith Chapter)
- Seth Naicker – IndiAfrique, South Africa
- Munyaradzi Clara Mandipaza – INERELA+, Malawi
Campaign and Advocacy
- Rosaline Gollo Galgalu – WASO Hope CBO
- Tadele Mamo – Evangelical Churches Fellowship of Ethiopia
- Rev. Esther Muhagachi – Christian Council of Tanzania
- Joel Mwita – Safe Engage Foundation
Theological Innovation
- NICA (National Independent Church of Africa) – Kenya
- WUFBON (Western Uganda FBO Network) – Uganda
- Daniela Gennrich – We Will Speak Out, South Africa
Faith-Based Advocacy in Action
The ceremony showcased the role of faith-based organizations (FBOs) in bridging gaps and fostering resilience. Reverend Esther Muhagachi highlighted the vital role of FBOs in providing education and healthcare services, framing these efforts within religious commitments to justice: “Faith-based advocacy is not passive; it is a transformative force for legal, educational, and societal change.”
The contributions of youth champions like Hallawia Shariff of YWCA Kenya also stood out, demonstrating how faith-based initiatives empower younger generations to lead community-based change.



Closing Remarks
The event underscored the interlink of gender justice and faith principles. As Professor Mugo aptly concluded: “Advocating for gender justice is a moral imperative. Faith traditions, at their core, uphold the dignity and equality of all.”
The Awards of Excellence 2024 not only celebrated outstanding achievements but also ignited a renewed commitment to transformative, faith-based advocacy across Africa.
Let us continue to honor those driving change and championing justice, ensuring their legacies inspire generations to come.
Leave A Comment