"The award is accompanied by $1-million (about R8.2-million)"

ARCHBISHOP Emeritus Desmond Tutu has thanked the Mo Ibrahim Foundation, after it awarded him a special award for his advocacy for justice, freedom and democracy.

Announcing the award in Johannesburg yesterday, foundation head Mo Ibrahim said Tutu had consistently been vocal against injustices.

Tutu and his wife Leah were celebrating their birthdays with family and friends when the announcement was made.

Tutu said: "I have been very fortunate throughout my life to be surrounded by people of the highest calibre, beginning with my extraordinary wife.

"It is these generous people who guided, prodded, assisted and cajoled me - and ultimately allowed me to take the credit.

"I would like to thank Mo Ibrahim and his foundation for their faith in our work."

Ibrahim said the award would be presented to Tutu personally on October 15 in Dakar, Senegal.

"The award is accompanied by $1-million (about R8.2-million)," Ibrahim said.

Making a recommendation in choosing Tutu, Ibrahim said he made an extraordinary grant to the outstanding African civil society champion.

Former president Nelson Mandela was the first to win the special award in 2007.

"Whether one always agrees with Archbishop Tutu or not, his contribution to dialogue, to accountability and to debate on Africa's future has been unparalleled," Ibrahim said.

"His integrity and moral authority deserves recognition. We hope this award will inspire the next generation to follow Archbishop Tutu's example and speak to power."