Colombian Environmental Corporation Honors Corine Hazoumé with Prestigious Golden Orchid Award at COP16
By
Sesan Rufus Awobiye
Cali, Colombia, November 1, 2024 –
In a distinguished ceremony concluding the COP16 summit in Cali, Corine Hazoumé, the Honorary Consul of Côte d’Ivoire in Colombia, received the esteemed “Orchidée d’Or” (Golden Orchid Award). This accolade was presented by the Corporation for the Environment of Bogotá (CORPOBOGOTA) in recognition of her significant contributions to international law, humanitarian advocacy, environmental protection, and peace-building. The event was attended by influential figures from across Latin America, Africa, and beyond, reflecting the award’s prominence and Hazoumé’s impact on the global stage.
The award underscores Hazoumé’s dedication to environmental sustainability, which spans over 15 years of advocating for biodiversity and nature conservation. Known for her multifaceted contributions as a cultural icon, media personality, and diplomat, Hazoumé’s work has earned her widespread respect in both her home country of Côte d’Ivoire and her host country, Colombia.
During her acceptance speech, Hazoumé was visibly moved as she expressed deep gratitude for the honor and for the warmth of the Colombian people, saying, “I have traveled the world three times over, but I have never encountered a people as extraordinary, hospitable, warm, hardworking, and wonderful as Colombians. If there is a word beyond ‘thank you,’ it belongs to you. I am profoundly honored to receive this environmental award after years of promoting biodiversity and nature conservation. Sincerely, thank you a thousand times to CORPOBOGOTA.” Her words echoed her longstanding connection to Colombia and underscored the unique cultural and diplomatic ties she has fostered between Côte d’Ivoire and Colombia.
Distinguished Attendees and Expressions of Gratitude
The ceremony drew numerous dignitaries, including Colombian President Gustavo Petro, Meta Governor Rafaela Cortes Zambrano, and Tuja Mayor Mikhail Krasnov, each of whom congratulated Hazoumé on her achievements. Additional tributes came from Empress Esperanza Bioho Perea, Director of the Colombia Negra Foundation, and Pastora Ines Gutierrez, Director of I Group Consolidador, as well as prominent journalists and media representatives like Julio Cortes. Their presence underscored the far-reaching influence of Hazoumé’s work and her dedication to fostering understanding across borders.
In her acceptance remarks, Hazoumé extended her appreciation to these Colombian leaders and personalities, acknowledging the country’s commitment to environmental and social progress. She also paid tribute to the broader Colombian community, recognizing them as a vital part of her journey and success.
A Heartfelt Salute to the African Diaspora and Ivorian Partners
Hazoumé reserved a special acknowledgment for the African diaspora, highlighting individuals like Douna Togrongou, an African affairs officer who served as her interpreter and confidant throughout the COP16 proceedings. Her appreciation extended back to Côte d’Ivoire as she thanked Colonel Benoit Severin Baillet, Mayor of Guiglo, Côte d’Ivoire, who provided unwavering support for her mission in Colombia. Hazoumé also acknowledged key members of the Ivorian business community, including Mr. Degny Michel and Pastor Kouassi, as well as her family and friends, whose encouragement has been central to her work.
Strengthening Côte d’Ivoire-Colombia Relations
This Golden Orchid Award also symbolizes a successful milestone in diplomatic relations between Côte d’Ivoire and Colombia. The mission led by Guiglo’s delegation to Colombia, which Hazoumé played an instrumental role in, was deemed an overwhelming success. Through initiatives like these, Hazoumé has strengthened cultural and economic ties between the two nations, enhancing collaboration in areas such as environmental protection, sustainable development, and cultural exchange.
CORPOBOGOTA’s recognition of Hazoumé with the Golden Orchid Award marks a defining moment in her career, honoring her as a true champion of environmental and humanitarian causes. Her legacy of promoting biodiversity, fostering diplomatic understanding, and uplifting communities across continents continues to inspire a new generation of leaders committed to global sustainability and peace.
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