News: Recently, Dr. Kennedy Odede, Founder and CEO of Shining Hope for Communities (SHOFCO) has been awarded the 2025 Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela Prize by the United Nations.
About Nelson Mandela Prize 2025
- The United Nations Nelson Mandela Prize was established by General Assembly Resolution on 6 June 2014.
- The Prize is awarded once every five years, beginning in 2015, with subsequent awards in 2020 and 2025.
- The Prize recognises two individuals—one female and one male, who must be selected from different geographic regions to ensure global representation.
- The Prize honours individuals who have dedicated their lives to advancing reconciliation, social cohesion, and community development in line with UN principles.
- Winners receive a plaque with a citation and Mandela quote—no cash award.
- Current staff members of any UN organisation are not eligible to receive the Prize.
- The Prize is formally presented by the UN Secretary-General during the General Assembly’s commemoration of Nelson Mandela International Day on 18 July at UN Headquarters.
- No Indian has received the award yet.
