Mekelle, Tigray - Sister Kahsa Hagos, Coordinator of Adigrat One-Stop Centre, has been awarded the prestigious 2023 Women, Peace, and Security (WPS) Civil Society Leadership Award for her outstanding efforts in providing vital support to survivors of sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) amidst the conflict in the Tigray region. The award ceremony, taking place in Mekelle, Tigray, on Tuesday, May 14, 2024, is organized by Global Affairs Canada and UNFPA to recognize individuals and organizations making exceptional contributions to advancing the WPS agenda in fragile or conflict-affected regions.

When the conflict erupted in November 2020, Sister Kahsa Hagos served as the coordinator for the Maternity and Childcare Unit at Adigrat Hospital in the Tigray Region. However, as the conflict escalated, incidents of sexual violence surged, overwhelming the capacity of the hospital. Witnessing a dramatic increase in cases, Sister Kahsa Hagos realized the urgent need for safe spaces and spearheaded the establishment of a waiting home to provide shelter and basic services for survivors of gender-based violence (GBV).

"Sister Kahsa Hagos's unwavering dedication to supporting survivors of sexual and gender-based violence in the Tigray region is truly commendable," remarked Mr. Koffi Kouame, UNFPA Representative. "Her courageous efforts have provided a lifeline for countless survivors, offering them a safe haven amidst the turmoil of conflict."

Despite facing numerous challenges and resource shortages, Sister Kasha Hagos remained steadfast in her commitment to serving GBV survivors. Her tireless efforts eventually led to the establishment of a safe house in Adigrat, providing comprehensive care to survivors, including mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS), and sexual and reproductive health (SRH) services.

Reflecting on her journey, Sister Kasha Hagos stated, "I aspire to witness survivors achieve justice and accountability. I am committed to dedicating my life to their service." Her remarkable dedication and resilience serve as an inspiration to all those working towards promoting peace, security, and gender equality in conflict-affected regions.

Canada's Minister of International Development, the Honourable Ahmed Hussen, expressed her admiration for Sister Kasha Hagos's courageous efforts, stating, "Sister Kasha Hagos's dedication to supporting survivors of sexual and gender-based violence is an inspiration to us all. Her unwavering commitment to supporting survivors in the Tigray region embodies the values of compassion, resilience, and solidarity that are at the heart of promoting peace and security for women and girls."

Canada’s Women, Peace, and Security Civil Society Leadership Awards aim to recognize and celebrate the crucial role of individuals like Sister Kasha Hagos in advancing the WPS agenda. Her recognition underscores the importance of grassroots initiatives in promoting peace, security, and gender equality in conflict-affected regions.

For more information about the Women, Peace, and Security Awards Ceremony, please contact: 

Global Affairs Canada