Engen, lead sponsor of 2010 Africa Peace Award

More than 750 guests from government, diplomatic circles, civil society of three countries and foreign dignitaries will attend. Among them, South Africa's President Jacob Zuma will witness the handing over of the award to Sierra Leone President Ernest Bai Koroma who will accept the award on behalf of the people of Sierra Leone.

Maintaining peace

In his address, Vasu Gounden, founder and executive director of ACCORD, said Sierra Leone was being honoured for its determination, patriotism and bravery in ending a decade-long civil war, for achieving peace and for maintaining it through two elections after the conflict.

The APA was established in 1993, initially to recognise South African communities, individuals or institutions whose efforts turned conflict into peace. In 1995, it was extended to include all of Africa, with similar objectives. Engen's support continued throughout this period, until the present.

Committed to Africa

“It has been Engen's privilege to support ACCORD, initially in promoting peace in South Africa, then in promoting the country's vision for peace in Africa,” says Rashid Yusof, Engen CEO and MD. “As a nation we have learnt that we can never let our guard down against the forces of enmity, and we support this award with humility and full knowledge of our own frailty.”

With operations in 18 African countries, Engen is committed to Africa, having stated that it wants to be a leading petroleum marketer in Africa by 2016.

“As we seek out new opportunities in Africa, we pledge our continued commitment and support to its people,” concludes Yusof. “Africa is our home and our sustenance, and we hope that our contribution to ACCORD's endeavours on the continent and in South Africa will help bring us the lasting peace we all crave, as citizens, as communities and as businesses.