Hadizatou Mani facts for kids
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Hadizatou Mani (born in 1984) is a brave human rights activist from Niger. She fought a long legal battle to become free from slavery. After gaining her freedom, she became a strong voice against slavery, helping others.
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Hadizatou Mani's Early Life
Hadizatou Mani was born in 1984 in a place called Dogaroua in central Niger. When she was just 12 years old, she was sold into slavery for about $500. She was forced to become the fifth "wife" of her owner. Her daily life involved doing many household chores and hard physical work.
Fighting for Freedom
In 2003, slavery became illegal in Niger. This happened because of pressure from countries around the world. A group in Niger called Timidria, which helps people, stepped in. They made Mani's owner sign papers that said she and another woman were free. However, Hadizatou Mani was not told about her freedom right away.
Legal Battles for Freedom
After her first emancipation, Hadizatou Mani faced many legal challenges. One court case said she was free, but another said she was not. She got married again after being freed. Her former owner then accused her of bigamy, which means being married to two people at once.
In 2008, a very important court case took place. Hadizatou Mani received help from Anti-Slavery International and Timidria. She presented her case to the court of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). This time, she won her case! ECOWAS then told its member countries to protect their citizens from slavery.
Awards and Recognition
After her victory in court, Hadizatou Mani received $20,000 in damages. Her story gained attention worldwide. In 2009, she received the International Women of Courage Award. This award was given to her by the then-First Lady Michelle Obama and then-Secretary of State Hillary Clinton.
That same year, Time magazine recognized her courage. They named Hadizatou Mani as one of their most influential people of 2009.
Continuing the Fight Against Slavery
Even though Hadizatou Mani won her legal battle, slavery still happens in Niger. Because of this, she became a dedicated campaigner against slavery. She works with Timidria to help other women who are victims of slavery. She supports them in challenging their enslavement in court.
For example, in 2014, she helped with a court case. A man was sentenced to four years in prison for enslaving a woman. This showed that legal action can make a difference.
In 2022, the BBC honored Hadizatou Mani. They included her in their list of 100 Women of the year. This recognized her ongoing efforts and bravery.
