A press release from the Rafto Foundation points out that Bulambo Lembelembe Josué’s work is giving child soldiers, rape victims and other victims of the conflict hope of peace, reconciliation and human dignity.
Rafto Prize winner Pastor Bulambo Lembelembe Josué. Photo: Tor Magne Kommedal / the Rafto Foundation.
An important prize
The Rafto Prize, which is worth USD 10 000, has been awarded every year since 1987 in memory of the Norwegian human rights activist Dr. Thoralf Rafto.
Nobel Peace Prize Laureates Aung San Suu Kyi, José Ramos-Horta, Kim Dae-jung and Shirin Ebadi are all previous winners of the Rafto Prize.
Former Rafto Laureates Kim Dae-jung (right), Aung San Suu Kyi, Shirin Ebadi and José Ramos-Horta. Photo: the Rafto Foundation.
Congratulations from the Government
“The selection of this year’s Rafto Prize winner is a good and important one. It sets a spotlight on a forgotten crisis and the tireless efforts of a local hero to promote peace and reconciliation in Eastern Congo,” commented Minister of Foreign Affairs Jonas Gahr Støre.
Increased support
Norway has for several years supported Pastor Bulambo’s projects to help former child soldiers and rape victims and to promote reconciliation, through the Norwegian Pentecostal Church.
“This year, we are increasing our funding for efforts in Congo to prevent sexualized violence and provide protection and help to victims,” said Minister of the Environment and International Development Erik Solheim.