In December of 2022, Ipas Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) won a ‘Mwasi Ya Bwanya’ trophy and diploma of merit for being the ‘Best NGO empowering women.’ The award acknowledges the impact of Ipas DRC in promoting sustainable sexual and reproductive health and rights to empower women and improve gender equity and girls’ education.
Every year, Mwasi Ya Bwanya—which means wise woman in Lingala—a show broadcasted on the national television of Congo (RTNC), organizes an award ceremony where organizations promoting the advancement of women in the DRC and Africa are recognized. The text on the diploma reads that it is awarded for “consistency, sustainability, innovation, expertise, moral integrity and social impact over the past five years.” This year marked the third annual edition of the Mwasi Ya Bwanya award ceremony, but the first time Ipas DRC had won.