Wilson Atumeyi, Founder of Water with Development (WaterWide), a non-profit organisation, has won the 2020 Africa Youth Awards.
Atumeyi, who is Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) advocate, was on the list of 10 men and women nominated from across different African countries, as the winner in the Advocate of the Year 2020 category.
The awards shortlisted nominees comprised of 45 females, 65 males and 18 organisations, with strong representations from South Africa and Ghana.
The award also featured 18 Nigerians, 14 Kenyans, nine Ugandan and Tanzanian nominees.
The Award ceremony, which was held virtually, had no fewer than 129 young Africans and organisations nominated for the 2020 Pan African Awards Scheme.
It aimed at honouring young Africans who are championing the development of the continent in diverse fields.
In a statement on Saturday, Atumeyi explained that the awards scheme is inspired by the lack of recognition for young Africans who have selflessly dedicated their lives to making sure the future of Africa is guaranteed.
He added that “the award brings together like-minded young people who are passionate about the development and progress of Africa.
“The advocate of the year category is designated to award a young African who has adopted legal means to represent the voice of the marginalised in their community.
“They must exhibit courage, leadership and passion in championing their causes which must bring change to their community,” he said.
Atumeyi’s WaterWide, is an organisation that tracks government spending for Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) for improved access to safe water in rural communities.
Atumeyi, through his organisation has provided access to safe water in communities in Nigeria and provided hand hygiene materials for over 430 households to combat the spread of the coronavirus pandemic.
He has also trained no fewer than 1,000 Nigerians on budget analysis and project tracking for water, sanitation and hygiene.
