Gambiaj.com – (BANJUL, The Gambia) – InnovaRx Global Health has announced the establishment of the prestigious “Aja Fatim Mbenga Lifetime Service Award,” also known as “The Fine Award,” which will recognize Gambian women who have demonstrated extraordinary service and dedication to their country and communities.

The award’s inaugural recipient, Aji Yamundow Jagne, a pioneering figure in Gambian law enforcement, will be honored at a ceremony on Thursday, September 19, 2024.

Aji Yamundow Jagne, whose distinguished career spans nearly four decades, became the first female head of the Gender and Child Protection Unit of The Gambia Police Force. Her service included key roles in U.N. peacekeeping missions in Liberia and Sudan.

In Darfur, she became the first female Gambian officer to be wounded by gunfire. Her bravery and commitment earned her a promotion to Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) in 2009. Recently, she was recognized with a long-service and good-conduct medal for her 36 years of professional and dedicated service.

The Fine Award, named in honor of the late Aja Fatim Mbenga, a renowned advocate for women’s rights, reflects the values and legacy of both women. Mbenga, who passed away in 1994 at the age of 56, was a champion for women’s empowerment, playing a key role in Women In Services, Development, Organization & Management (WISDOM), Gambia, and was a close confidant of The Gambia’s first president, Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara.

The award recipient will receive a lifetime healthcare package through the InnovaRx RXWOW PASS Premium, which includes free medications, at-home delivery services, and complimentary doctor consultations. This initiative underscores InnovaRx Global Health’s commitment to supporting non-communicable disease prevention in The Gambia.

The award ceremony will take place at InnovaRx Global Health’s headquarters on Kairaba Avenue and is open to the public. It aims to celebrate the courage and legacy of these extraordinary women while inspiring future generations to continue advancing women’s rights and empowerment in The Gambia.