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An article by Debbo Mballo in Vivafrik (translation by CPNN)

The third Regional Forum of the 2017 Banjul Forum action plan took place from 28 to 30 October 2019. It was supported by UNESCO and its partners in order to better appreciate the level of the involvement of young women and men in national processes of democratization, governance, national reconciliation and the construction of a social environment conducive to the culture of peace. It facilitated exchanges to find ways and means, modalities of action, and forms of expression the most appropriate for a better commitment.

The 2019 forum focused on the roles and place of young people in governance, democracy and human rights, as well as new forms of innovative expressions and demands by young people in these processes. It was a platform to catalyze and accelerate the implementation of the African Union’s roadmap for investing in youth, with a focus on youth civic participation and youth engagement. as co-creators of sustainable solutions for Africa.

These periodic meetings consolidate a tradition of reflection, discussion and action on the place of young Gambians and West Africans in the societal space, and to better understand their roles in the processes of transformation and democratization of society. .

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(Click here for the original French version of this article.)

Youth initiatives for a culture of peace, How can we ensure they get the attention and funding they deserve?

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The overall goal of this initiative is to strengthen the capacity of young people to exercise transformational leadership at the community, national and continental levels in the democratization process of society.

This conference planned to achieve the following specific objectives:

1. Provide a platform for sharing experiences of lessons learned and reflections on the role of youth in democratic and peaceful transitions in Africa: (Allow young Gambians to learn from other countries’ experiences and enable African youth to benefit from the experience of young Gambians);

2. To secure a space for dialogue and action among the various sections of the youth (young academics, young activists, young humanists, young social entrepreneurs, etc.) on their own concerns and perspectives as well as those of their country, their region, the continent and the global world;

3. Secure a space of intergenerational dialogue where young people can exchange with “old young leaders” around important and / or topical issues such as the issues of governance, democracy, peace, violence and so on. as well as issues related to equality and equity (including gender), the enhancement of natural and cultural heritage, social inclusion, human rights etc. ;

4. Secure a space for dialogue and action between youth and authorities on the concerns and perspectives of countries, the region, the continent and the global world with a focus for each forum on particular themes.

5. Present, enrich and validate the results of the “MOST Policy Oriented Research” entitled: “Youth and spaces of freedom in Africa: emerging forms of expression for democratization and achievement of the SDGs”, conducted at the request of young people during the 2017 Banjul Forum.

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An article from Al Wihda (translated by CPNN)

The Minister of Women, Early Childhood Protection and National Solidarity, Dr. Djallal Ardjoune Khalil, received in audience on Monday, the delegation of the National Union of Young Professionals for Consultation and Peaceful Coexistence (UNJCP), led by its secretary-general, Sidick Sougui Lony.

The exchange between the minister and the delegation focused on peace, the disarmament of the civilian population and peaceful relations between the different communities of the province of Ouaddaï.

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(Click here for the original French version of this article.)

Youth initiatives for a culture of peace, How can we ensure they get the attention and funding they deserve?

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UNJCP Secretary General Sidick Sougui Lony briefly explained to the Minister the merits of the UNJCP mission in Ouaddaï province.

“We are working in Abeche to promote the culture of peace. We call on our civilian brothers to lay down their arms because it is useless for a civilian to own a weapon, “said Sidick Sougui Lony.

The minister congratulated UNJCP for this noble and patriotic initiative. She went on to point out that peace is an inestimable wealth. According to the minister, without peace, no society can evolve.

In addition, the Minister of Women, Child Protection and National Solidarity, Dr. Djallal Ardjoune Khalil urged the UNJCP to move forward in its quest for a united, strong and prosperous Chad . The ministry undertakes to accompany the National Union of Young Professionals for consultation and peaceful coexistence in all its actions.

The two sides agreed to combine joint efforts to intensify advocacy for peace and peaceful coexistence.

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A survey by CPNN

The following 53 actions in 27 African countries include those listed in Google during the week of September 21-28 under the key words “International day of peace” and “Journée internationale de la paix.” These also include some listed on the website of the event map for the International Day of Peace, as well as the facebook pages for the Global Feast and the International Cities of Peace.

About 50 actions are listed on the maps of One Day One Choir and Montessori schools singing for peace, but there is no indication which took place this year and which took place only in previous years. See the page of actions in the Arab States for those in North Africa.

Beni, DR Congo: While peace is celebrated in other countries of the world, here we celebrate assassinations, massacres, looting

Here are excerpts from the articles.

LUANDA, ANGOLA :

The Director-General of UNESCO, Audrey Azoulay, will open the 5-day Biennale of Luanda that will take place from 18 to 22 September in the capital of Angola, with the participation of representatives of governments, civil society and international organizations, as well as artists and scientists from the African continent and diaspora.

OUÈDO, BENIN:

The Red Cross of Benin through its local section of Ouédo marked with a particular seal the International Day of Peace. . . Through a caravan in the district of Ouédo (Abomey Calavi commune), the Benin Red Cross has sensitized the inhabitants on the good culture of peace. “Since two years that our section is installed here in Ouèdo, we noticed that there are several points of tension. Sometimes within the same religious affiliation. In these conditions, it was necessary to sensitize each other on the importance of the culture of peace,” said Aymar Rodolphe Sangnidjo, head of the local Red Cross Ouedo. Also present with the organizers was the singer Vivi International, godmother of the event. For her, every opportunity must be taken to teach Beninese the notion of living together and tolerance of one’s neighbor. “For me, the word peace is the most beautiful word that can exist.” she said.

PORTO NOVO, BENIN:

The Federation for Universal Peace (FPU) and sister organizations such as the federation of families, the federation of women and all partner institutions met at the International House of Culture of Porto-Novo to give a special stamp to the celebration of the International Day of Peace. In addition to the religious and Muslim prayers, this is the word of welcome, Emmanuel Allognon President of the Federation of Families for World Peace-Benin chapter, marked the start of activities. The theme of the day was presented to participants by Dr Paterne Zinsou, Secretary General of the Federation for Universal Peace.

BUJUMBURA, BURUNDI :

Mr. Pierre Claver NDAYICARIYE, President of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) of Burundi, was the main speaker at the ceremonies marking the International Day of Peace, 2019 edition. . . .The TRC seeks the truth about what happened in Burundi during the colonial period from 1885 until 2006.

BUJUMBURA, BURUNDI :

The Anglican Church of Burundi celebrated the International Day of Peace

BURKINA FASO :

This day was commemorated in Bobo-Dioulasso through a popular cross-country race that brought together young people from the thirteen regions of Burkina Faso (delegations had also come to the National Youth Forum). According to the deputy resident of UNDP, Isabelle Tschan, the commemoration of this day is relevant, given the national situation in Burkina Faso. She invited young people to take action to fight climate change and promote peace. For Daouda Azoupiou, Minister of Sports and Recreation, sport remains the best way to promote peace. For him, “sport is a factor of peace, sport brings together, unites and contributes to the development of youth”. He also welcomed this youth committed to peace and expressed his willingness to accompany these young people in the search for peace. “Peace concerns everyone, especially the youth.”

OBALA, CAMEROON :

Organized at the initiative of the mayor of the municipality of Obala, Simon Pierre Ediba, and in partnership with the Civic and Political School of Yaoundé as part of the commemoration of the International Day of Peace, the Center for Documentation and Information of Obala held a workshop at the fairground aimed to reinforce the values ​​of living together.

BANGUI, CENTRAL AFRICAN REPUBLIC :

On the International Day of Peace, +Peace, Pathfinders for Peaceful, Just and Inclusive Societies, and Impact:Peace launched the Peace in Our Cities Campaign, with 11 mayors and local officials representing over 15.8 million people from Colombo, Sri Lanka; Nairobi Municipality, Kenya; Cali, Colombia; Guadalajara, Mexico; Tripoli, Lebanon; Bangui, Central African Republic; Durban, South Africa; Escobedo, Mexico; Kumanovo, Macedonia; Kibera County, Nairobi, Kenya; and Chaguanas, Trinidad and Tobago, pledging to work towards halving violence in their cities by 2030. The campaign calls on mayors, local authorities, civil society, the private sector, and other partners to sign the pledge and join the growing movement to transform global violence.

BANGUI, CENTRAL AFRICAN REPUBLIC :

The celebration of the International Day of Peace in the Central African Republic, which is facing a crisis characterized by cycles of violence, is also an additional opportunity for the Central African Republic, in addition to the extension efforts provided by the Government and its partners, to understand the Political Peace Agreement and Reconciliation (APPR) and to take ownership of it. Bangui, on occasion, has paid particular attention to the deaf dumb and the disabled, a layer that seems to be forgotten in the peace process, but has a say. Nearly 500 people attended the Boy Rab Youth Center to support and encourage the Deaf Association, whose President Jefferson Mongonou expressed their duty to participate in the peace process, and hence their right to be involved in the peace process.

BOTANGAFO, CENTRAL AFRICAN REPUBLIC :

In Botangafo, the people celebrated the 2019 International Day of Peace, through a variety of activities including a fairground show by Guira FM, football matches, an information workshop on the Peace Agreement and the Mandate of the MINUSCA peacekeeping operation. There were also talks and debates that brought together youth, women, and armed groups, including Batangafo Sub-Prefect Jean Ulrich Sembe Kpanga, who welcomed the commitment to the success of the various activities listed. as part of this celebration, while urging them to respect the terms of the Agreement and to remain more mobilized for “The Peace and Economic Recovery of the City of Batangafo”.

BOUAR, CENTRAL AFRICAN REPUBLIC:

In Bouar, in the Prefecture of Nana Mambéré, the International Day of Peace was marked by the final of the Peace Cup, a march for peace that gathered more than 1000 people including local authorities, the members of the prefectural committee of peace and reconciliation, women, United Nations agency staff, members of armed groups, among others. Opportunity for the Nana Mambéré Prefect, Marcel Bagaza, to insist on the need for the various parties to the Peace Agreement to respect its commitments.

NDELE, CENTRAL AFRICAN REPUBLIC :

The celebration of the International Day of Peace in Ndele. The security situation in Birao has focused attention on this very special day, as many of the city’s inhabitants have lost relatives. It was therefore in unison that they called for the cessation of all hostilities throughout the CAR, and Birao in particular. The Prefect of Bamingui-Bangoran, Amine El Mahad, presided over the skit demonstrations on non-discrimination, traditional dances and a football match between the taxi-bikes and the butchers of the city.

OBO and ZEMIO, CENTRAL AFRICAN REPUBLIC:

In celebration of the International Day of Peace in Obo and Zemio (Haut Mbomou), the population planted trees for peace. Youth, armed groups, local authorities and community leaders women’s associations, people living with disabilities have received the message on the Peace Agreement, and have unanimously called for the dismantling of illegal barriers, the end arbitrary taxes, and the violation of human rights “.

COMORES :

On the occasion of the celebration of the International Day of Peace, the Grand Mufti called for “impartial justice to preserve peace in our islands”. Calling also the authorities to accompany the volunteers involved in this cause, Said Toihir Ahmed Maoulana expressed a general finding that peace, long recognized as a heritage and wealth in the Comoros “is currently threatened.”
The International Day of Peace was celebrated last Saturday at the Moroni Women’s Home. Several local and foreign personalities took part in the event, including the Mufti of the Republic, the Minister of Justice, the Sudanese Ambassador to the Comoros and his colleague from Saudi Arabia, and representatives of associations engaged in the promotion of peace, among others.

POINTE-NOIRE, CONGO BRAZZAVILLE :

A cleaning operation was organized in Pointe-Noire by the Pointe-Noire town hall in partnership with the Averda Company, and the collaboration of certain associations.
The celebration of the International Cleanup Day was coupled with the celebration of the International Day of Peace. This is the second time this activity is organized. It was launched last year at the national level during the first edition of the World Clean Up Day. Activities were conducted in Pointe-Noire (Ngoyo and Tié-Tié) and Brazzaville by the Junior Chamber International (JCI) which is committed to working towards the achievement of sustainable development objectives.

CÔTE D’IVOIRE :

The Peace and Security Network for Women in the ECOWAS region Côte d’Ivoire (REPSFECO-CI) and its partners urged Ivorian political actors to make every effort to preserve peace. This urgent appeal was launched by Me Diallo Geneviève, the President of REPSFECO-CI, on Wednesday, September 18, 2019, at the Sorbonne au Plateau space. This ceremony, held on the occasion of the celebration of the International Day of Peace, set up by the United Nations General Assembly, was aimed at raising questions about the danger threatening peace, just a few months away from the Presidential election of 2020, according to Me Diallo Geneviève. So these women are calling on civil society, the media, the international community, to be more professional. “Let’s work together hand in hand to build a lasting peace. Join us to reaffirm our commitment and take concrete steps to build and keep peace in Côte d’Ivoire, “said Diallo Geneviève.
 
BENI, DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO (DR CONGO):

Beni’s civil society feels that the International Day of Peace, celebrated every 21st September around the world, has no raison d’être in this city, given the repeated deadly violence against civilians in Beni. Kizito Bin Hangi, president of this civil society, regrets that the people of Beni do not live in peace, while the DRC is a member of the international community and has already ratified several texts related to peace. “Whoever says peace says peace, calm, a city without crackling bullets … But at home in Beni, insecurity is a reality. While peace is celebrated in other countries of the world, here we celebrate assassinations, massacres, looting …” said Kizito Bin Hangi. . . .For the past five years, the people of Beni have been facing horrific and repetitive massacres perpetrated by alleged rebels of Allied Democratic Forces (ADF). These killings have already killed more than 3,000 civilians, including hundreds of kidnapped people and thousands of internally displaced people who have abandoned their homes, burned by the attackers.

BUNIA, DR CONGO :

The Center of Non Violence for Reconciliation and Peace celebrated the International Day of Peace

GOMA, DR CONGO :

The Groupe Martin Luther King is a Congolese association for active nonviolence, human rights, peace and reconciliation based in Goma, Nord Kivu province in the East of the Democratic Republic of Congo in central Africa. We continue with the legacy of Dr Martin Luther King in Africa. We will organize a training on active nonviolence for the International Day of Peace.

GOMA, DR CONGO :

Goma, as a member of International Cities of Peace, took part in the Global Feast for the International Day of Peace

KANANGA, DR CONGO :

On the sidelines of the international day of peace celebrated Saturday, September 21 in the world, in Kananga several related activities were organized. . . In an interview with the editor of the interview.cd, Albert Ngalamulume said “Since we are in the citizen movement fighting for change during or after the atrocities of kamwina nsapu we never stop to launch the message of peace, carry out awareness campaigns, participate in various broadcasts of radio stations to call the people who had the weapons in their hands to lay them down and make peace.”

KINSHASA, DR CONGO :

The 38th edition of the International Day of Peace was celebrated on Saturday 21 September 2019 in Kinshasa by the United Nations. On this occasion, a march was organized, from the Place de la Gare, via the Boulevard du 30 Juin to finish at the Place des Evolves. Participating in this ceremony on behalf of the Government of the Republic, Raymond Tchedya Patay, Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs and Congolese Abroad, sensitized all Congolese to plant a tree, a symbol of the fight against global warming and the improvement of climatic conditions. To this end, “the Ministry of the Environment, Nature Conservation and Sustainable Development, in synergy with its partners, must carry out a series of actions in this area starting from the development of the national environmental program for forest, water and Biodiversity . . . Hence, Congolese and Congolese peace and environment efforts will make the DRC the green lung of the planet in order to preserve its ecosystems that allow it and the world to live in peace for a harmonious future. .

NYANGEZI, DR CONGO :

Nyangezi, as a member of International Cities of Peace, took part in the Global Feast for the International Day of Peace

SUD KIVU, DR CONGO :

The International Day of Peace is celebrated while a climate of insecurity is maintained by the presence of armed groups that sow terror and desolation in South Kivu and throughout the eastern part of the DRC. What is at the root of persistent insecurity in South Kivu? What are the internal actors? How to solve this situation? So many questions on the front page of Espace Citoyen this Saturday, September 21, 2019 from 10:00 to 11:15 on Mama Radio. To advance the debate, post your comment on the facebook page of the Radio.

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What has happened this year (2019) for the International Day of Peace?

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UVIRA, DR CONGO :

Uvira, as a member of International Cities of Peace, took part in the Global Feast for the International Day of Peace

ADDIS ABABA, ETHIOPIA :

The International Day of Peace was celebrated in Addis Ababa.

GABON :

As part of the celebration of the International Day of Peace, celebrated this year under the theme: “Climate Action, Action for Peace”, the National Coordination of the Panafrican Youth Network for the Culture of Peace (PAYNCoP GABON) took part last Friday, September 20th, in the plastic waste collection operation, organized by the United Nations system in Gabon.

GAMBIA :

Click on the link for a video about the celbration of the International Day of Peace in Gambia.

ACCRA, GHANA :

Speaking at the 2019 International Peace Day in Accra, the Chairman of the National Peace Council, Most Rev. Emmanuel Asante, said Ghana continues to be a beacon of peace in the West African sub-region as indicated in the latest global index released by the Economic and Peace Institute Ghana. The Country Representative for the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), Ms. Silke Hollander . . . attested that Ghana had built up an effective peace architecture and that the UNDP was particularly proud to have been part of the journey which led to the formalisation and the strengthening of the National Peace Council and its Regional Peace Councils — which include the diverse religious bodies as well as traditional leaders playing a critical role in conflict prevention and resolution in the country. She pledged the UNDP’s continuous support to the Peace Council to maintain peace and social cohesion.

GUINEE :

Message from the Minister of Citizenship and National Unity on the International Day of Peace:. . . “In my capacity as Minister of Citizenship and National Unity, I would like to remind everyone that diversity of opinion, dialogue and consultation contribute to consolidation of democracy. They are the very essence of this, because they show the capacity of a country to debate the fundamental questions of the life of the state. The bottom line is that these divergences are expressed through legal channels and in a calm climate favoring the free expression of opinions. This requires on the part of all a responsible, patriotic attitude of calm and serenity.”

ELDORET, KENYA :

The Alternative to Violence Trust Kenya held nonviolence trainings to the youths in college and universities since these are the easily manipulated people to engage in violence when it comes to politics and even if they have issues in their institution

NAIROBI, KENYA :

The SOON Readers’ Club No.11243 plans to host peace day event and activities including educational activities and sports.

NAIROBI, KENYA :

On the International Day of Peace, +Peace, Pathfinders for Peaceful, Just and Inclusive Societies, and Impact:Peace launched the Peace in Our Cities Campaign, with 11 mayors and local officials representing over 15.8 million people from Colombo, Sri Lanka; Nairobi municipality, Kenya; Cali, Colombia; Guadalajara, Mexico; Tripoli, Lebanon; Bangui, Central African Republic; Durban, South Africa; Escobedo, Mexico; Kumanovo, Macedonia; Kibera County, Nairobi, Kenya; and Chaguanas, Trinidad and Tobago, pledging to work towards halving violence in their cities by 2030. The campaign calls on mayors, local authorities, civil society, the private sector, and other partners to sign the pledge and join the growing movement to transform global violence.

KABERNET, KENYA

See photos celebrating the International Day of Peace @ Kabarnet Kenya International City of Peace.

LIBERIA :

A SHARED STATEMENT RELEASED BY CAMP FOR PEACE LIBERIA AND NETWORKS IN OBSERVANCE OF THE INTERNATIONAL DAY OF PEACE, 21 SEPTEMBER 2019
Several civil society organizations including youths from communities, political parties, religious groups, media, people with disabilities have joined together to release this statement in commemoration of the International Day of Peace. . . .The statement calls on all Liberians, especially youths to recommit to collective action as a safeguard for Liberia’s peace and development. During the Liberian civil crisis, over 250,000 people lost their lives, and several thousand were forcibly displaced as a result of persecution, conflict, violence, or human rights violations. The consequences of these actions were grieved. “We need to redouble our collective efforts to prevent violent conflict by addressing conflict through non-violence means. We need to redouble our collective efforts to respond to the crisis in ways that support peace and development. We resolve to respect each other and work collectively to sustain Liberia’s peace.”

BAMAKO, MALI :

The International Day of Peace was celebrated on 19 September in Bamako. . . The day of celebration in Bamako included an exchange session between MINUSMA staff and the population, a friendly football match between MINUSMA and local youth, and a reception followed by a cocktail party. The activities took place in the Kalaban-Coro Kouloubleni district, in the presence of the mayor of the commune, members of the Cri d’Espoir association, traditional and religious leaders, and representatives of civil society. The president of the partner association Cri d’Espoir sent the following message: “I thank all the Malians who are there. To the young people of Kalaban-coro: peace is in the head. The Mayor of Kalaban Coro Kouloubleni thanked the Cree d’Espoir Youth Association for their efforts . . .This event highlighted the vital place occupied by youth in the peace process in Mali.

PAMPLEMOUSSES, MAURITIUS :

The Council of Religions is commemorating the ‘International Day of Peace’ on 24 September 2019 at l’Aventure du Sucre, Pamplemousses from 9.30 a.m. to 10.30 a.m. On this day, we will bid farewell to the Right Reverend Ian Ernest, Bishop of the Anglican Diocese of Mauritius and we will launch a booklet titled ‘3 Stages of Life’ a new publication from the Council. 

MAURITIUS :

The International Day of Peace will be celebrated this 21st of September by Global Peace Chain with a summit this Saturday that will highlight Mauritius as an example of peace. This summit will be animated by representatives of different organizations that fight for peace. Proposals and recommendations will then be sent to the United Nations. The different panels will discuss, among other things, the role of women and youth in the maintenance of peace.

MAPUTO, MOZAMBIQUE:

This year, our Aga Khan Academy Maputo Grade 9 students (with Mr. Bernardo) collaborated to organise an assembly for the whole school, to help students define the meaning of peace across many different languages from around the world. During the assembly, students were asked what peace means to them. For some:
‘Peace is a day when there is no war, a day when everyone is united and together.’ 
‘Peace means love to me.’
‘Peace means love, it means stopping conflict and it means we should hope.’
‘Peace is when the country is calm.’
‘Peace for me is the answer to stopping destruction around the world.’
As well as this inspiring assembly, Grade 9 students also arranged several activities for PYP and MYP students, making pledges and gathering together to participate a peace picnic – during which many students made friends with people of different ages and enjoyed some delicious food of course!

NIAMEY, NIGER :

Niger has joined the international community to celebrate September 21st, the World Day of Peace. Under the theme: “climate action, action for peace”, the celebration of the World Day of Peace was rich activities including a tree planting session at the University Abdou Moumouni Niamey, a popular race in Stade Général Seyni Kountché, a conference debate, a football match, cultural events …, all organized by the High Authority for Peace Consolidation (HACP) supported by its partners including the Delegation of the European Union in Niger and the United Nations System in Niger. . . .Finally, to immortalize the commemoration of World Peace Day in style, a cultural evening was also organized on the same day, at the Omarou Ganda Cultural Center (CCOG) in Niamey. The cultural evening began at 9 pm with the performance of slam artists, the presentation of sketches, parades.
 
BENIN CITY, NIGERIA :

Faculty of Peace organisation will hold its annual World Peace Day Conference on Thursday the 19th of September, 2019 at Imaguero Secondary School Hall at Sapale Road, Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria by 10:00am. The Theme for this year’s programme is “Corruption: Threat to National Peace and Development”

IBADAN, NIGERIA :

As a member of International Cities of Peace, Ibadan held a feast for the International Day of Peace.

KADUNA, NIGERIA :

The Standard Foundation School, Barnawa GRA, Kaduna marked this year’s Int’l Day for Peace. It was interactive and entertaining as students came to realize practicable actions they should take to mitigate climate change for peace of mind. We also joined voice in the climate strike by a minute silence of all activities in the school.

OGUME, NIGERIA :

Today the International cities of peace Ogume celebrated world peace day with special interfaith prayers held at Ogume town hall.

KUBWA, NIGERIA :

As a member of International Cities of Peace, Kubwa, held a feast for the International Day of Peace.

UYO, NIGERIA :

Peace Mindset Ambassadors will focus on reducing gender-based violence (domestic and sexual violence perpetrated against women and girls) in the home and in the society at large.

REUNION :

Dozens of people gathered on the Human Rights Square in Champ Fleuri, to celebrate the International Day of Peace, September 21, 2019. On this occasion, several political and associative personalities explained how peace in the world and among peoples is crucial for Humanity. . . .Among the organizations present were AID, the League of Human Rights, Europe Ecology the Greens, and among others, the Interreligious Dialogue Group. Julie Pontalba, president of the Mouvement Réunionnais Pour la Paix explained that “faced with the banalisation of violence and injustice, we tend to believe that it is immutable that there is nothing to do”. . . . Yet, she explained, “it is possible to act and especially it is “essential to make our voices heard, every moment, because the fight for peace is every day and together”. An analysis shared by Idriss Issop Banian, president of the Inter-Religious Dialogue Group.

DURBAN, SOUTH AFRICA :

On the International Day of Peace, +Peace, Pathfinders for Peaceful, Just and Inclusive Societies, and Impact:Peace launched the Peace in Our Cities Campaign, with 11 mayors and local officials representing over 15.8 million people from Colombo, Sri Lanka; Nairobi Municipality, Kenya; Cali, Colombia; Guadalajara, Mexico; Tripoli, Lebanon; Bangui, Central African Republic; Durban, South Africa; Escobedo, Mexico; Kumanovo, Macedonia; Kibera County, Nairobi, Kenya; and Chaguanas, Trinidad and Tobago, pledging to work towards halving violence in their cities by 2030. The campaign calls on mayors, local authorities, civil society, the private sector, and other partners to sign the pledge and join the growing movement to transform global violence.

Southern Africa :

The Southern Africa Youth Forum (SAYoF), a regional platform for youth and youth organizations in SADC countries, today joins the world in celebrating the United Nations International Day of Peace. This year’s theme, “Climate Action for Peace” comes at a time when SAYoF has just launched an initiative: “SADC Youth Negotiators Program on Climate Change”, as well as young people taking the lead in the region on the global climate strike, to campaign for climate justice. This year’s theme draws attention to the importance of the fight against climate change as a means to protect and promote lasting peace around the world. Climate change poses clear threats to international peace and security, and global climate emergencies pose a threat to security and stability. . . . It is in this context that as young people of SADC, we are committed to peace. On the basis of the horrible recent xenophobic events that have occurred in South Africa, we must work together for peace and unity. We must not miss the opportunity to achieve peace. Peace is necessary for the social or economic progress of our region. Peace also depends on the establishment of social and economic equality through a sound political system that faithfully serves the legitimate interests of all its citizens.
We therefore note that, on this day, young people are the engine of development and the peaceful existence of the region. In line with this year’s theme, SADC must engage youth in sustainable initiatives and as agents of change to mitigate climate change, reduce global warming, and play a leading role in raising awareness and building climate change. a lasting peace.

TANZANIA :

Click on the link for a video of celebration of International Day of Peace in Tanzania.

LOME, TOGO :

As part of the celebration of the 2019 edition of the World Day of Peace, about 2,300 obsolete weapons and more than 10,000 rounds of ammunition were destroyed Saturday at the Lomé shooting fields. The operation took place in the presence of General Damehame Yark, Minister of Security and Civil Protection. The latter had with him, the Director of the United Nations Regional Center for Peace and Disarmament in Africa (UNREC), Mr. Anselme Yabouri and the Coordinator of the United Nations System in Togo, Mr. Damien Mama. “By making the decision to incinerate obsolete weapons that can always hurt, the government is translating its availability, willingness, commitment and determination to make peace the essential element of development,” he said.

TOGO

For the International Day of Peace in Togo, the company CAFE INFORMATIQUE decided to take the opportunity to celebrate Peace and the famous singer and craftsman of Peace, JIMI HOPE.. . . . History will remember that JIMI has always been a man committed to peace. And for proof, we can mention his great artistic project called “The Way of Peace”. It is a monumental fresco in the heart of the city of Lomé (Peace Dove Square). Finally, by dedicating a tribute day and a mega concert to this famous Togolese singer and defender of peace, CAFE INFORMATIQUE doubly marks the celebration of the International Day of Peace 2019.

MBARARA, UGANDA :

In the first 4 days of the peace week, Youth for Peace and Development Uganda, YOPEDU shall visit different schools and hold workshops on peace building attended by students’ leaders and school management. The grand finale will be a street match in Mbarara attended by student leaders and members of society.

CHITUNGWIZA, ZIMBABWE

The International Day of Peace will be celebrated by Zengeza 4 ward 14 peace builders.

ZIMBABWE :

 Platform for Youth and Community Development (PYCD) will be commemorating this day through a sports tournament featuring eight community soccer teams and eight community netball teams. The participating community teams have been picked from various villages in Chipinge district. The sports tournament will be preceded by a march which is expected to denounce the sprawling of gender based violence cases in Chipinge district. The procession will be from Machona village via Chisumbanje village to the venue of the commemoration, which is Takwirira High School on the 28th of September 2019.