This years International Peace Day has seen a buildup of activities from Mombasa County to a culmination of a national event.
Interfaith Youth, Women of Faith and members of clergy in Mombasa have actively been involved in peace building initiatives which have included mediation; dialogues, conflict transformations and community sensitization. On 19th September, 2020 Inter-Religious Council of Kenya (IRCK), Mombasa Interfaith networks through the support of Diakonia Kenya Country Program held a pre-peace day commemoration event at Nyali Sub-County.
The Deputy County Commissioner awarded 50 Peace Champions in the county, who have been at the forefront in advocating for peace-building.
On 21st September 2020, IRCK was part of a high level Webinar bringing together Government of Kenya ministries, the United Nations, the political leadership and key stakeholders in different sectors at the national and county level. Where the voice of religious leaders, grassroots communities and vulnerable people was amplified through their representation in the Webinar. The Webinar was broadcasted live across the country where the National Peace-building Strategy for COVID-19 Preparedness, Response and Recovery was launched.
As a Kenyan, I plead with you to critically analyze whatever you hear and see so that you make informed decisions that are mindful of your immediate neighbor and the entire nation”, Archbishop Ole Sapit
“Let us therefore use this time when we are fighting against and adapting to the Covid-19 pandemic to deepen our realization of how much we need each other. Let us cultivate ethnic cohesion and unity that brings out the beauty and character of our nation. We are all aware that we have already entered the tumultuous political season when aspirants strive to position themselves for the elections that are two years away. As a Kenyan, I plead with you to critically analyze whatever you hear and see so that you make informed decisions that are mindful of your immediate neighbor and the entire nation” read part of Archbishop Ole Sapit, message to Kenyans.
As part of closing remarks during the Webinar, Dr. Francis Kuria, Executive Director IRCK concluded by saying, “There is a need to channel peace to the grassroots level, have security agencies act collectively and also recognize the role of women and girls as important peace actors”.
The Inter-Religious Council - Kenya Blog 