Zainab Bangura

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Zainab Bangura (8640648216)

Zainab Hawa Bangura (born 18 December 1959) is a Sierra Leonean politician and social activist who has been a prominent figure in international efforts to address issues of gender-based violence and human rights. She has held several significant positions within the United Nations and the Sierra Leonean government.

Early Life and Education

Zainab Bangura was born in Yonibana, Tonkolili District, in the Northern Province, Sierra Leone. She attended the Magburaka Government Secondary School for Girls and later pursued higher education at Fourah Bay College, where she earned a degree in History and Political Science. She also holds a diploma in Insurance Management from the City University of London.

Career

Early Activism

Bangura began her career as a social activist, focusing on issues such as women's rights and democracy. She co-founded the Campaign for Good Governance (CGG), a non-governmental organization aimed at promoting democratic principles and practices in Sierra Leone.

Political Career

In 2002, Bangura ran for the presidency of Sierra Leone as an independent candidate, although she did not win. She later served as the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation from 2007 to 2010 under President Ernest Bai Koroma. In this role, she worked on strengthening Sierra Leone's diplomatic relations and played a key role in the country's post-war reconstruction efforts.

United Nations

In 2012, Bangura was appointed as the United Nations Special Representative on Sexual Violence in Conflict, a position she held until 2017. In this capacity, she worked to combat sexual violence in conflict zones and advocated for the rights of survivors. Her efforts included working with governments, civil society organizations, and international bodies to develop and implement policies aimed at preventing sexual violence and providing support to victims.

Achievements and Recognition

Bangura has received numerous awards and honors for her work in promoting human rights and gender equality. She has been recognized by various international organizations for her contributions to peacebuilding and her efforts to combat sexual violence in conflict.

Personal Life

Zainab Bangura is married and has children. She continues to be an influential figure in the fields of human rights and international diplomacy.

See Also

• Sierra Leone
• United Nations
• Gender-based violence
• Human rights
• Ernest Bai Koroma