The King Baudouin Foundation has announced the launch of the King Baudouin African Development Prize, and invites submissions for the first edition of the Prize.

The King Baudouin African Development Prize aims to reward individuals or organisations who are making an outstanding contribution to development in Africa. The Prize pays particular attention to initiatives which stand out as the best in their field, significantly improve the quality of life of the populations they serve, and empower local communities to take development into their own hands.

The Prize builds on the superb track record of its predecessor, the King Baudouin International Development Prize, which was established in 1978 to promote social progress throughout the developing world. After three decades with a global reach, the King Baudouin Prize will concentrate its efforts on Africa, in line with its core objective of supporting pioneering development work where it is needed most. According to a UNDP ranking, the majority of countries with a low ‘human development index’ are indeed located on the African continent.

The 2012-2013 King Baudouin African Development Prize will be awarded in the spring of 2013 at the Royal Palace in Brussels. Beyond its monetary value of 150,000 euros, the Prize offers its winners unique opportunities to increase their visibility and promote their cause to international audiences.

The deadline for nominations is 15 February 2012. To nominate a candidate, please complete the electronic form on www.kbprize.org. Applications received from individuals who apply for the Prize for themselves or for an organisation within which they are active will not be accepted.