UNITED NATIONS, New York (6 June 2002): Olara A. Otunnu, the Special Representative of the United Nations for Children and Armed Conflict is honored during a ceremony in Berlin on June 6, as he receives the “German Africa Prize” 2002.

Founded in 1978, the German Africa Foundation has awarded this prize each year since 1993, for work and activities in promoting peace, democracy and development in Africa. Its principal activities focus on dialogue and on achieving a broader understanding of Africa’s problems.

Said Mr Otunnu: “It is my great privilege and honor to accept this prize for work done on behalf of the United Nations Secretary-General, in my capacity as his Special Representative for Children and Armed Conflict. In the years since my mandate was created, and during visits around the world to advocate for children, I have witnessed incredible suffering, but I have also been privy to measurable successes.” He added that the award was an encouragement to all those who believe in a better future for children, and work towards that goal…

Past recipients of the “German Africa Prize” include Sir Ketumile Quett Masire, former president of Botswana, and the late Maitre Alioune Blondin Beye, United Nations Special Representative for Angola. The board of trustees of the foundation comprise a number of members of the German Parliament.