FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
(BRISBANE, AUSTRALIA – July 12, 2025) In the Friday morning plenary of the 2025 Baptist World Congress hosted in Brisbane, Australia, the Baptist World Alliance (BWA) presented the Congress Quinquennial Human Rights Award to Sano Vamuzo of Nagaland, India. The Congress Quinquennial Human Rights Award is given for a lifetime of achievement to an individual who has shown significant accomplishments in global advocacy for human rights and the pursuit of social justice and peace.
A pioneering voice for peace and women’s empowerment in Northeast India, Vamuzo has dedicated more than four decades to promoting justice, gender equity, and reconciliation. She is a founding member and the first president of the Naga Mothers’ Association (NMA), the first voluntary women’s organization for all Naga women. Established in 1983, the NMA has been at the forefront of peace campaigns and social reform under the motto ”Human Integrity.”
During her tenure as president (1984–1991, 1994–1995), Vamuzo led the NMA in confronting social evils, advocating for the welfare of youth, and raising the visibility of women in public life. Under her leadership, the organization became a vital force for peacebuilding in a region long impacted by political instability. In recognition of this work, she was honored with the Navjyoti Award by the Delhi Police Foundation for her outstanding achievements in youth-focused social service.
“Women of faith must not remain spectators,” said Vamuzo. “We are called to be helpers, nurturers, leaders, and peacemakers. This is what Naga women are striving to do; standing with women across the globe for a more just and humane world.”
In addition to her advocacy through the NMA, Vamuzo served as the first Chairperson of the Nagaland State Commission for Women for two terms (2007–2013) where she worked to ensure the protection and advancement of women’s rights across the state. Her service was further recognized nationally when she was awarded the Padma Shri in 2024 – one of India’s highest civilian honors – for her distinguished contributions to social work.
She also worked alongside her late husband, Phesao Vamuzo, former Chief Minister of Nagaland, throughout his three-decade political career – supporting efforts toward peace, development, and justice in the region.
“This recognition strengthens our resolve to walk with the unheard, speak peace where there is pain, and build bridges where there are walls,” said Vamuzo.
To learn more about BWA awards, visit BaptistWorld.org/awards.
