Peace and Sport Council of Afghanistan Awards 2025 Peace Prize to Humanitarian Leader Valdir Jesus de Andrade
The Peace and Sport Council of Afghanistan has announced Mr. Valdir Jesus de Andrade as the recipient of the 2025 Afghanistan Peace Prize, honoring his outstanding humanitarian service, commitment to global security, and impactful contributions to peace and human dignity around the world.
Born on March 26, 1964, in Paraná, Brazil, Mr. Andrade is an accomplished mechanical engineer, entrepreneur, military officer, and diplomatic representative. He is internationally recognized for his work in humanitarian missions, peacekeeping operations, and technological innovations dedicated to improving lives in vulnerable communities.
A Career Dedicated to Innovation and Social Impact
Mr. Andrade has built a distinguished career that combines technical expertise with a strong humanitarian mission. His engineering and entrepreneurial initiatives focus on sustainable, socially beneficial technologies, including:
• Steam-powered energy-generation turbines designed for isolated regions.
• Water desalination systems that provide safe drinking water to remote and at-risk populations.
These innovations reflect his long-standing commitment to using technology as a tool for human welfare and global development.
Humanitarian Missions Across Continents
Mr. Andrade’s humanitarian work spans multiple continents and critical global events. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he took part in repatriation operations across several countries, ensuring the safe return of citizens facing imminent risk. He also contributed to evacuation missions supporting vulnerable populations fleeing conflict or instability in Ukraine, Lebanon, Venezuela, and other regions—providing vital assistance to civilians in danger.
Service in Peacekeeping and International Security
With extensive experience in peacekeeping operations, Mr. Andrade has engaged in efforts to stabilize sensitive areas, protect civilian lives, and deliver urgent humanitarian support. His service has earned him several prestigious international honors, including:
• UN Peacekeeper Medal
• Ambassador of Peace Medal (Rome, Italy)
• Guardia d’Onore Medal (Monte Carlo, Monaco)
He also serves as a Guardia d’Onore affiliated with the Italian Ministry of Defense and as an Officer of the International Police Organization, contributing to global efforts against transnational crime. His notable achievements include the liberation of individuals subjected to forced labor in Portugal and direct participation in dismantling human trafficking networks.
A Lifelong Commitment to Peace and Human Dignity
Currently serving with the World Fund for Development and Planning (WFDP), Mr. Andrade continues to lead initiatives that promote peace, advance technological development for social benefit, and safeguard lives in high-risk environments.
The Peace and Sport Council of Afghanistan selected him for the 2025 Peace Prize in recognition of his “unwavering dedication to humanitarian service, technological innovation for societal good, and global efforts to protect and uplift vulnerable communities.”
Through a career marked by integrity, courage, and international impact, Valdir Jesus de Andrade stands as a model of humanitarian leadership and a worthy recipient of this year’s Peace Prize.
