Konexio Africa has been awarded the prestigious 9th Sharjah International Award for Refugee Advocacy and Support (SIARA) for its groundbreaking efforts in leveraging technology to create opportunities for young refugees. The ceremony, held in the presence of Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Ruler of Sharjah, was organized by The Big Heart Foundation (TBHF) in collaboration with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). Selected from 970 nominations, Konexio Africa was recognized as a leading model in humanitarian work for its success in equipping refugees and vulnerable youth with digital skills and connecting them to online employment opportunities.
Konexio Africa’s Digital Inclusion Programme, launched in 2019, has been instrumental in bridging the digital divide for underserved communities. The initiative, which began in Malawi’s Dzaleka Refugee Camp, has since expanded to Kenya, serving both urban refugees in Nairobi and camp-based refugees in Kakuma. The programme focuses on digital literacy and job-specific training, enabling participants to access sustainable employment. An impressive 84% of trainees report increased income upon graduation, transforming the lives of hundreds of families.
Fabien de Castilla, Director of Konexio Africa, expressed gratitude for the award, emphasizing its significance for the over 8,000 individuals trained across Africa. He highlighted the tangible impact of the programme, including improved food security, steady income, and access to education for children. Looking ahead, Konexio Africa plans to expand its operations and integrate Artificial Intelligence (AI) training into its curriculum, further enhancing the skill sets of its beneficiaries.
The SIARA award underscores the UAE’s and Sharjah’s commitment to humanitarian excellence, celebrating initiatives that promote resilience, dignity, and opportunity for refugees and displaced populations. During the ceremony, TBHF also announced the launch of a second documentary film, following the success of “The Story of a Neighborhood,” which has been recognized at 25 film festivals. Nominations for the 10th edition of the SIARA award are now open.