Marie Laure Essan receives Akif Manaf Health and Peace Award

Marie Laure Essan, President of the Federation of Hiking and Wellbeing for All (FIRAPE) in Ivory Coast, has been honored with the Akif Manaf Health and Peace Award. This marks the fourth country to receive the award, following Italy, France, and Belarus, extending the program's international reach into Africa.

Essan has been recognized for her long-term efforts in promoting sports, healthy living, and social inclusion. Her initiatives focus on providing physical activity opportunities to diverse groups, including women, children, students, and individuals with disabilities. Her work also emphasizes ecological awareness through thematic programs like ‘Rando Verte’ and ‘Rando Brune,’ which combine physical activity with environmental conservation.

The Healthy Living Foundation, which presents the award, aims to improve quality of life and promote sustainable living and environmental consciousness. Essan also holds the position of President of the African Sports for All Federation, becoming the first woman to lead the organization.