The Islamic Development Bank recently announced the winners for this year's prize for Women's Contribution to Development, including women from Morocco, Niger and Indonesia. The Individual Category prize, which includes a cash award of $50,000, will be equally shared by Professor Zoubidah Charrouf from the Science Faculty of the Mohammed V University in Morocco and Seydou Ramatou Boubacar, a researcher in Food Technology from the National Institute of Agronomic Research in Niger. Charrouf received the award for her outstanding efforts, exceptional expertise and scientific research in developing an innovative and environmentally friendly method of processing and producing Argan oil. It also rewards her efforts in improving the economic status of rural women by increasing their ability to efficiently produce this kind of herbal oil (which is well known for its nutritious and medicinal applications) and contributing to their livelihood. Boubacar received the award for her inspirational work in revolutionizing the processing and consumption of cowpeas, thereby significantly contributing to improving food security and rural women's economic productivity in Niger. The Chemistry Foundation of Syiah Kuala University in Indonesia was selected as the recipient for the Organization Category Prize and will receive a cash award of $100,000. The Foundation, founded by three outstanding women, has played an important role in helping communities in Aceh to improve their socio-economic status by providing them with sustainable solutions as well as education and training on how to use innovative technology in their daily lives. IDB Group President, Dr. Ahmad Mohamed Ali, stated that 2011 marked the sixth edition of the annual prize, which is meant to encourage women to contribute to the social and economic development of their societies, thus combating poverty. “This year's winners shall receive the awards during the upcoming 36th annual meeting of Governors from IDB's member countries (56) due to be held in Jeddah from June 29-30,” a statement said.
