Angeline Murimirwa, CEO of the UK-registered charity Camfed, has been awarded the prestigious Africa Education Medal 2024 for her pioneering work in promoting girls’ education across five African countries. Camfed, which was founded in Cambridge and Zimbabwe, now operates in 7,044 partner schools in rural communities in Zimbabwe, Zambia, Tanzania, Malawi, and Ghana.
Murimirwa, one of the first beneficiaries of the charity in Zimbabwe, expressed her gratitude for the recognition, stating, “This award is a tribute to our entire movement – to everyone whose commitment to education drives them to go further and do better every day.”
Mayank Dhingra, senior education business leader at HP, praised Murimirwa’s efforts, saying, “Her vital work has paved the way for dismantling barriers to girls’ education. Many will be inspired by her leadership to ensure every child receives the quality education they deserve.”
Camfed’s work highlights the dire challenges girls face in rural Africa, where the majority do not complete secondary education. The charity addresses obstacles that prevent marginalized girls from attending school and collaborates with governments to enhance educational systems to better serve girls’ needs.
Beyond secondary school, Camfed supports young women in transitioning to employment or entrepreneurship, empowering them to become community leaders. Murimirwa was also the first chair of the Camfed Association, a network of 279,000 women leaders across Africa. Each member is committed to financially supporting at least three other girls in their community, helping ensure they remain in school.
Murimirwa emphasized the collective effort required to address the educational challenges girls face, stating, “The need is great, and we cannot do this alone. Together, we are raising the flag for a more equitable world.”
