Distinguished Partners for Women, Peace and Security Awardee Spotlight: Part 1

Mobilizing Men as Partners for Women, Peace and Security works to support and amplify women’s engagement in global processes of peace, reconciliation, and post-conflict reconstruction. A key pillar of the Male Allies for Women, Peace and Security (MAWPS) work is to strengthen and empower grassroots organizations in conflict-affected countries. Local organizations have their fingers on the pulse of their communities; mobilize quickly and effectively at the grassroots level; work together across divides; build broad support; and create sustainable solutions.  

To support grassroots activities through a trust-based model of funding, MAWPS identifies civil society groups in conflict-affected countries with established records of leadership, integrity, and trust. They work at the nexus of gender rights, health, conflict resolution and population displacement, and often adopt a more holistic approach to addressing the needs of the local population. Over the past 5 years, OSF/MAWPS has contributed over $160,000 in unsolicited small grants to local grassroots organizations. In 2024, one of those awardees included the Coast Association for Persons with Disabilities. Stay tuned for Part 2 highlighting another 2024 award recipient.   

Award Winner: Coast Association for Persons with Disabilities  

Hamisa Zaja, CEO 

MAWPS presented the Coast Association for Persons with Disabilities with the Distinguished Partners for Women, Peace and Security Award for their tremendous work empowering persons economically and socially with disabilities in Kenya. Hamisa Zaja is the founder and chairperson and as a person living with a disability, is committed to building a peaceful society and providing opportunity and security for all.  

The Coast Association for Persons with Disabilities provides a range of support including providing alternatives to youth who are targeted by violent extremist groups, creating resource centers where youth can gain vocational skills, supporting employment opportunities, and advocating for improved security measurements.  

As one of the Distinguished Partners for Women, Peace, and Security award recipients, the Coast Association for Persons with Disabilities used its funds to support the Kurunzi Cerebral Palsy Center by providing essential resources for individuals with disabilities. With this award, they purchased specialized exercise equipment that will greatly enhance their therapy programs. The equipment not only promotes physical well-being but also encourages independence and confidence among their participants. In addition, funding also went to purchasing a disability motorbike so they could more quickly reach people with disabilities in the coastal region of Kenya during emergencies.  

Hamisa’s dedication to inclusion is a beacon of hope for so many people living with disabilities in Kenya. As she noted on the World Day for Persons with Disabilities, “By amplifying diverse voices and perspectives, we can create a more inclusive society that not only acknowledges the challenges faced by people with disabilities but also celebrates their achievements and potential. Together, we can break down barriers, promote accessibility, and ensure that everyone has the opportunity to lead, innovate, and contribute. Let’s work towards a future where inclusion is a fundamental principle, and where every individual is empowered to shine." 

The Coast Association for Persons with Disabilities has made tremendous progress in advancing these critical issues and ensuring a more inclusive and peaceful society. The Mobilizing Men as Partners for Women, Peace, and Security is honored to have supported their vital work.