Category Archives: Africa

World Social Forum Heads to Benin: A Comeback for African Civil Society?

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Articles from Peace Magazine and Habitat International Coalition

Next year’s World Social Forum (WSF) will take place August 4–8 in Cotonou, the capital of Benin. It will mark the seventeenth edition of the global gathering since the first was held in Porto Alegre, Brazil, in 2001. The Benin forum represents a revival of African civil society, which has struggled in recent years”.


Unlike the corporate-driven World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, the WSF has always positioned itself as its counterpoint: a space for grassroots movements, activists, and civil society organizations (CSOs) to network across borders, debate urgent global issues, and share alternative visions for development.

This time, the spotlight falls on Benin, a small West African nation tasked by the WSF International Board with hosting duties. Civil society groups in the region lobbied hard for it, securing government backing—and even commitments to expand the Cotonou airport and other infrastructure— to accommodate the expected flood of participants.


For many, the Benin forum represents a revival of African civil society, which has struggled in recent years under political repression, funding shortages, and organizational challenges. Previous WSFs in Africa were held in Mali (2006), Kenya (2007), Senegal (2011), and Tunisia (2013). But why choose Benin, a relatively small and little-known state among Africa’s 54 countries?


The answer lies partly in its geography and history. Benin—home to 15 million people—sits between Nigeria, Burkina Faso, Niger, and Togo. To the north, Burkina Faso, Niger, and Mali have banded together as the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), a bloc of military-led governments gaining notoriety for their populist stances, anti-French rhetoric, and growing alignment with Russia.

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Question for this article:

World Social Forums, Advancing the Global Movement for a Culture of Peace?

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By contrast, Benin’s story is one of peaceful transition. The country moved from a MarxistLeninist regime to a multiparty democracy, and today boasts more than 300 active NGOs across sectors. For advocates, it’s a promising setting at a moment when Africa is asserting more autonomy and experimenting with indigenous forms of governance. For more details, visit FSM 2026.

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From November 20–21, 2024, the Global Convergence for the Struggle for Land and Water (CGLTE-OA) held a pivotal workshop in Cotonou, Benin, setting the stage for the highly anticipated 2026 World Social Forum (WSF). Bringing together key stakeholders, including traditional leaders, trade unions, and civil society organizations, the event sought to evaluate progress, galvanize support, and establish structures to ensure the success of the forum. HIC participated in this encounter represented by HIC African Coordinator, Desmond Chiese. . . .

The 2026 World Social Forum promises to be a landmark event, addressing critical global challenges while fostering dialogue and collaboration for sustainable development. With the structures and strategies laid out during this workshop, CGLTE-OA and its partners are poised to make this forum an enduring legacy of progress, inclusion, and global solidarity.

Stay tuned for updates as we count down to WSF 2026 in Cotonou!

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Africa, FREE FLOW OF INFORMATION

Tanzania marks peace day amid election calls for calm

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An article from The Citizen, Tanzania

Dar es Salaal. Tanzania will join the world in marking the International Day of Peace on September 21, 2025, with this year’s commemoration carrying special weight as the country approaches the General Election.

Calls for calm have grown louder from both national leaders and grassroots groups, highlighting the importance of safeguarding harmony as political competition intensifies.


(Click on image to enlarge)

President Samia Suluhu Hassan and Zanzibar President Hussein Ali Mwinyi have both placed peace at the heart of their campaign messages.

Speaking in Makunduchi, Zanzibar, on Wednesday, September 17, 2025, President Hassan urged Tanzanians to embrace unity during the election period, saying: “Peace is the foundation of our democracy. Without it, no election, no development, and no progress can take place.”

President Mwinyi echoed her message, reminding citizens that Tanzania’s tradition of tolerance and cohesion must never be taken for granted.

“We must all stand guard to protect our peace. It is our greatest strength as a nation,” he said.

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Question related to this article:

What is happening for the International Day of Peace?

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Their remarks set the tone for this year’s International Day of Peace events in Tanzania, which opened on September 18, 2025, with the second Youth, Peace and Security Forum in Dar es Salaam.

The three-day forum has drawn young people from across the country, alongside religious leaders, diplomats, civil society groups, and government officials.

Its theme, ‘Youth and Peace: Take Action Now to Sustain a Culture of Peace’, highlights the role of young people in shaping a stable future.

The African Leadership Initiative for Impact (ALII), Executive Director, Mr Joseph Malekela, said the forum would address four priorities: youth participation in decision-making, the role of young people in digital spaces, economic empowerment as a safeguard against crime, and youth-led climate action.

“Young people make up the majority of Tanzania’s population. When empowered on peace and security, they become the backbone of a resilient nation,” Mr Malekela said.

He revealed the forum would end with a peace walk from Coco Beach to the Julius Nyerere International Convention Centre (JKCI) as a public demonstration of unity.

The Ministry of Labour, Youth, Employment, and Persons with Disabilities has also pledged support.

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Africa, FREE FLOW OF INFORMATION

Ugandan Journalist Wins Luxembourg Peace Prize

. WOMEN’S EQUALITY .

An article from Peace News

A Ugandan journalist recently won the 2025 Luxembourg Peace Prize for outstanding peace journalism. On June 27, journalist Gloria Laker Adiiki Aciro accepted the prestigious award. Aciro is the founder of the Peace Journalism Foundation (PJF), and has reported on people building peace in the midst of the crisis surrounding the Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA).

Starting with its founding in 1987, the LRA devastated northern Uganda and neighboring countries by killing and abducting thousands of civilians, capturing child soldiers, and displacing hundreds of thousands. Aid agencies have worked to provide psycho-social support to help reintegrate people who were abducted by the LRA as child soldiers.

Aciro herself was a victim of the LRA when she was displaced during the LRA  war as a young girl in 1997. She started journalism with no training or experience, facing sexual harassment and sex-based discrimination in a society that considered journalism a man’s job. Aciro went on to found the PJF, which works to promote conflict-sensitive journalism. There, she has trained and mentored over 700 journalists across Africa as the director and media trainer. 

Two of Aciro’s articles have been featured in Peace News Network (PNN). The articles made up a two-part series about how two women, Judith Obina and Nora Anek, confronted LRA leader Joseph Kony and ended his brutal war in Northern Uganda. 

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Questions for this article

Can the women of Africa lead the continent to peace?

African journalism and the Culture of Peace, A model for the rest of the world?

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In part one  of the series, Aciro interviews Obina and details how Obina, a private secretary to President Yoweri Museveni, was entrusted with a the responsibility of caring for Joseph Kony’s elderly mother, Nora Anek Oting. In 2007, when Anek wanted to see her son, Obina saw this as a chance for Kony to abandon the violence that had devastated so many lives.

In part two, Aciro dives into Obina’s life inside the jungle with the LRA. There, she spent 14 days with Joseph Kony, the LRA’s leader, in a hideout in Ri-kwamba in 2007. After nine days of negotiations, a key moment arrived when Anek spoke to her son about ending the war. Obina said that Kony “said that he would never step foot in Uganda again to fight, kill, or abduct.” Aciro reports on the power of Anek’s relationship with her son. 

An Inspiration to Women in Journalism

Aciro received her award at the 13th Luxembourg Peace Prize ceremony amongst peacebuilders from around the world, journalist Cinderella Ayebare-Kalita reported. Esther Omam, the Chairperson of the Women Building Peace African Network (WBPAN), called on women to celebrate Aciro’s achievement.

“Dear sisters and colleagues, it is with immense joy that we celebrate our own Gloria… This recognition honors her work covering the LRA war and promoting peace journalism in Africa. We are proud of you, Gloria! Your achievement is a testament to the power of courage, commitment, and truth-telling in building peace.”

Aciro said, “I look forward to continuing my efforts in promoting peace and journalistic excellence.”

In light of Uganda’s upcoming election, she also announced announced the PJF’s future plans: launching a peace journalism initiative designed to detect, reject, and remove hate speech and misinformation, and training female journalists ahead of elections to amplify diverse voices in media. 

She urged journalists to demonstrate the “utmost responsibility… ensuring that our platforms are not used to spread hate speech.”
Aciro invited people to partner with and support the PJF.

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Africa, FREE FLOW OF INFORMATION, WOMEN'S EQUALITY

Niger: Maradi’s Traditional Leaders Equipped to Promote Women’s and Children’s Rights

. WOMEN’S EQUALITY .

An article by Abdourahamane Salifou from Agence Nigérienne de Presse

The Governor of the Maradi Region, Police Comptroller General Mamane Issoufou, opened the orientation workshop for traditional leaders on Wednesday, August 20, 2025, as part of the “Child-Friendly Sultanates and Cantons” initiative, led by UNICEF.

During this capacity-building session for traditional leaders, guardians of ancestral values, several themes related to the well-being of children, women, and families will be addressed.

These include, among others, vaccination and early access to health services for childhood illnesses; childbirth attended by skilled personnel; exclusive breastfeeding and good child nutrition; protection of young girls from abuse and early marriage; environmental hygiene and sanitation; community conflict management through a culture of peace and social cohesion; and youth involvement in community development.

In his opening remarks, Dr. Cyriaque SOBTAFO, Head of the UNICEF Maradi-Zinder Zone Office, acknowledged that the role of traditional leaders is essential and has always been decisive in community life. “Because,” he said, “you are the first point of contact for the population, the mediators of conflicts, the promoters of peace, and the natural link between institutions and citizens.”

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(Click here for the original French version.)

Questions for this article

Prospects for progress in women’s equality, what are the short and long term prospects?

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He recalled that UNICEF maintains a long-standing partnership with the chiefdom in Niger, a partnership that has been very successful and has enabled local populations to support previous campaigns, including the fight against polio, the prevention of early marriage, and child education.

Regarding the themes chosen for this workshop, the UNICEF Maradi-Zinder Zone Head of Office believes that these are not just topics for discussion, but are central to the daily lives of the communities.

Dr. Cyriaque Sobtafo finally encouraged the traditional chiefs to redouble their efforts because, he emphasized, “your voice carries weight, your example inspires.”

In his opening speech, the Governor of the Maradi region stated that the main concern of Niger’s highest authorities, foremost among them HE General Abdourahamane Tiani, President of the Republic and Head of State, and HE Ali Mahaman Lamine Zeine, Prime Minister and Minister of Economy and Finance, is the promotion of the socio-economic development of the population through the State’s own efforts and the support of technical and financial partners.

“That is why,” he said to the traditional leaders, “this meeting is of paramount importance because it aims to strengthen your capacities in advocacy, mobilization, and community engagement to contribute to the promotion of social norms and positive behaviors in favor of children’s rights in our region, a guarantee of harmonious, balanced, and sustainable development for our valiant people.”

He maintained that the objectives assigned to this meeting and the cantonal forums which will soon be led by the honorable canton heads for their communities are perfectly aligned with the orientations of the National Refoundation Policy and are part of the mission carried out collectively in the region by the highest authorities.

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Africa, WOMEN'S EQUALITY

Changing the Narrative: Why West African Media Is Embracing Peace Journalism

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An article by Mohammed Ibrahim from Peace News

In a media landscape often dominated by sensationalism and conflict-driven content, a quiet revolution is taking place. Across West Africa, radio stations are tuning into peace. These media houses are shifting their focus to peace journalism, using their platforms to promote dialogue, resolve conflicts, and build resilient communities.

At the forefront of this movement is Radio Peace, a community radio station located in the Central Region of Ghana. Co-initiator and Station Manager David Kwesi Ghartey-Tagoe explained that the station was born out of a desire to uplift marginalized voices in the region.


“The Central Region, once the seat of government and the cradle of education, ironically became one of the most deprived. We named the station ‘Peace’ because peace is a prerequisite for development,” he told Peace News Network (PNN).

When Radio Peace began operations in 1999, the region was grappling with numerous family and chieftaincy disputes. While not violent, these conflicts had the potential to escalate. The station responded by adopting participatory strategies like Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) and Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA) tools to include community voices in its programming. 

Ghartey-Tagoe said that rather than rushing to break news, the station takes time to ensure that every side is heard, which he noted was necessary for accuracy and fairness. In 26 years, he said, the station had never been sued. 

One example of the station’s impact was in Effutu, a community plagued by annual chieftaincy disputes during its Deer Hunt Festival. “The Chief was often barred from attending the festival by rival factions. Police presence became routine. Through participatory programming and giving voice to all sides, the situation has calmed. The Chief now attends without incident,” he said.

Despite challenges in maintaining audience engagement, Radio Peace strikes a balance between entertainment and education. Ghartey-Tagoe added that the station does not believe it is in competition with anyone but itself, and that it sets its own goals and involves the community as much as possible.  

This model is resonating beyond Ghana. Peter Nsoesie, Deputy Editor-in-Chief of DASH TV in Douala, Cameroon, is designing a peace journalism module for his station.

“Peace is essential because unresolved issues over land, family, and resources can spiral into crises. Back in 2007, a community radio [station] called Voice of Manyu helped resolve several land disputes in Mamfe through peace journalism,” Nsoesie shared. He emphasized that radio remains the most trusted medium in communities, even in the era of social media.

The Nigerian perspective echoes the same commitment. Ahmed Maiyaki, Managing Director of Kaduna State Media Corporation (KSMC) located in North Western Nigeria, said broadcast stations have continued to focus on peace building content as a result of the wide impact and reach it drives on targeted audience, especially radio. 

He explained that Radio stations play a critical role in building and promoting peace among diverse communities across the West Africa region.  “It gives a platform for community and citizens’ engagement initiatives and advocacy with wide and indisputable reach to all segments of society,” he said. 

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Question(s) related to this article:

African journalism and the Culture of Peace, A model for the rest of the world?

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Maiyaki shared a recent example where his station played a role in de-escalating tension and reprisal after some travellers were killed by local militias in Plateau State in North Central Nigeria on June 12. “The special program was designed to douse tension and mitigate possible escalation of the conflict,” he said.

He said that KSMC has continued to initiate robust and citizen-centered content that builds and promotes peace and social cohesion in Kaduna State and beyond. KSMC does this, he said, by reaching five radio stations across the state, producing and broadcasting content in local languages for the state’s diverse people. 

From Ghana, a presenter with Nananom FM 92.5, Mohammed Umar Al-Hussein highlighted how the station’s morning show ‘Maakye Show’ includes segments dedicated to promoting peace and discouraging youth involvement in drugs.

“The world has seen enough of the disasters brought by conflict. Peace journalism fosters relationships, national growth, and human rights. Its impact is real. Our listeners now understand the value of peace and seek to avoid conflict,” Al-Hussein said.

Aisha Gambo, a solutions journalism expert with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), supports this paradigm shift. “People are tired of hearing bad news with no solutions. Peace and solutions journalism are changing that narrative. They report on responses to social issues so that other communities can learn and adapt,” she explained.

While she hasn’t yet published a story that directly de-escalated tension, Gambo ensures her reporting never incites violence or hatred. She noted that after years of covering crime and corruption “with minimal change,” peace or solutions journalism may possibly be able to deliver “the transformation we seek.”

Ibrahima Yakubu, Team Lead for the Network of Peace Journalists (NPJ) Nigeria, believes the entire continent is gradually embracing this approach because of its measurable impact.

“Peace journalism is reshaping Africa. In Nigeria, it is helping eliminate fake news and reduce division,” he said. “For example, in 2016, when a state governor falsely accused a religious sect of terrorism, it was peace journalists who investigated and cleared the air. The community now lives peacefully.”

Yakubu also cited an incident in Southern Kaduna, where panic spread following reports of Fulani ‘terrorists’ migrating into the area. Peace journalists investigated and revealed the truth that the migrants were not terrorists. Their reporting restored calm to the community. “Peace journalism reduces tension by sticking to facts, not social media speculation. That’s how we stop chaos before it begins,” Yakubu emphasized.

Factors contributing to the trend

Factors contributing to the trend of media embracing peace journalism in West African countries include the desire to promote peaceful conflict resolution, a focus on community building and social harmony, and efforts to address hate speech and misinformation.

Other factors include promoting positive narratives and facilitating understanding among warring communities in these countries.

A Difficult But Growing Movement

Several challenges remain in implementing peace journalism in West Africa. The interviewees agreed that there is a lack of awareness and training on peace journalism practices among the majority of practitioners in the region.

Insecurity is another challenge. Many journalists promoting peace journalism face intimidation and harassment in some hostile communities. Poor working conditions also hinder journalists from practicing peace journalism, as it requires resources to move around and gather information for reports.

Religious and regional divisions pose another major challenge, as some journalists tend to write in ways that protect their religion or ethnicity.

Still, as conflict and misinformation continue to pose challenges, peace journalism offers a hopeful path forward one that turns up the volume on truth, understanding, and unity. “So the increase in media going for peace stories means the future of Africa is bright,” said Al-Hussein of Nananom FM.

Africa, FREE FLOW OF INFORMATION

Violence Against Women: West Africa at a Time of Decisive Choices

. . WOMEN’S EQUALITY . .

An article from Burkina 24 (translation by CPNN)

The adoption last February of the African Union Convention on the Elimination of Violence against Women and Girls was hailed as a major milestone for women’s rights on the continent.

However, the Alliance Droits et Santé, a regional collective committed to defending women’s human rights and health, warns that this progress risks remaining symbolic without rapid, effective, and funded implementation.

The organization particularly calls on the governments of Benin, Burkina Faso, Côte d’Ivoire, Mali, Niger, and Senegal (members of the alliance), as well as all African countries, urging them to translate this continental commitment into concrete national actions.

“Every day of delay exposes more women and girls to unacceptable violence. The time for promises is over, but for action,” the Alliance insists.

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(click here for the original article in French.)

Question related to this article:

Protecting women and girls against violence, Is progress being made?

What role should men play to stop violence against women?

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To prevent the Convention from remaining a dead letter, the organization makes three strategic recommendations to policymakers and civil society actors:

1. Strengthening legal frameworks and survivor protection: This involves harmonizing national laws with regional and international standards, criminalizing all forms of gender-based violence, and ensuring simplified and secure access to justice.

2. Sustainable financing for the fight against gender-based violence: Alliance Droits et Santé calls for the allocation of multi-year national budgets, the involvement of the African private sector through corporate social responsibility, and the creation of dedicated, transparent, and rigorously monitored funds.

3. Strengthened coordination and data sharing: The establishment of inter-stakeholder cooperation mechanisms, the digitization of data, the strengthening of specialized centers, and the training of field professionals are essential to ensure a coherent and effective response.

The organization emphasizes the need to build a collective response. Governments, technical and financial partners, feminist movements, civil society and the private sector must work hand in hand to guarantee every woman and girl a free, safe and dignified life.
 
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Africa, WOMEN'S EQUALITY

Burkina Faso: The 5th edition of the “Ambassadors of Peace Awards” will take place on August 1, 2025, with a series of activities

. DEMOCRATIC PARTICIPATION .

An article from Le Faso (translation by CPNN)

The 5th edition of the “Ambassadors of Peace Awards” (APA), an event aimed at recognizing individuals and organizations working to promote peace, patriotism, and social cohesion in Burkina Faso, will be held on August 1, 2025, in Ouagadougou, under the theme: “5 Years of the APA: What’s the Record?” For this edition, in addition to the awards ceremony, activities aimed at supporting national initiatives are planned.

This was announced by the leaders of the Movement for the Culture of Peace and Love of the Fatherland (MPAP), sponsor of the APA, on Tuesday, July 8, 2025, in Ouagadougou, during a press conference dedicated to the event.

The SIAO’s “Soleil Levant” pavilion has been selected for the awards ceremony, on August 1, 2025, starting at 8 p.m. The event will also be broadcast live on Burkina Faso’s national television.

This edition will therefore provide an opportunity to take stock of the APA’s five years of existence, through an assessment of the actions undertaken, the successes achieved, and the challenges to be addressed to improve future editions. It will also, the speakers continued, reaffirm the commitment to working for a peaceful future, a future where love of country and respect for civic values will always guide actions.

For this fifth edition, organizers have planned several activities spread over several days. Starting on July 31st, a panel will be held to review past editions and explore future prospects. “It will also be a time for exchanges between stakeholders involved in peacebuilding, to share their experiences, and analyze the impact of the various themes addressed in previous editions. This event will be a moment of celebration, but also of collective reflection, as it will allow us to lay the foundations for a shared vision for peace and sustainable development in our country,” reads the opening statement read by the president of the organizing committee, Paul-Marie Zoma, who is also vice-president of the MPAP.

The panel will also bring together institutional stakeholders, winners from previous editions, peace specialists, technical partners, and others. The evening will feature the presentation of trophies and certificates. It will also serve as a framework for launching a call for contributions to create a fundraising campaign for the “Faso Mêbo” presidential initiative.

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(Click here for the original article in French.)

Question for this article:

The new military governments in Africa: Are they promoting a culture of peace?

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“For participation in the Gala, a contribution of 25,000 FCFA per person or 250,000 FCFA for a full table of 10 is requested. An evening for partners and peace ambassadors will be held on August 2nd, starting at 6 p.m. Prior to all these activities, the MPAP plans to visit the headquarters of the Faso Mêbo Presidential Initiative to salute and encourage all those involved in the success and completion of this initiative,” the speakers explained, adding that the partners will also welcome the participation of the winners of all the APA awards.

The awards are organized into trophy categories. The “Grand APA” (Grand APA) recognizes an individual or legal entity who has invested in promoting peace, social cohesion, and community life, and who has had a significant impact on their community through peacebuilding, community building, and social initiatives (e.g., caring for vulnerable people). The second category is the “APA for Patriotism,” which recognizes an individual or legal entity who, through their daily actions, demonstrates a commitment to their country, demonstrated by a desire to defend and promote it through actions in this regard.

The “APA for Leadership” recognizes an individual or legal entity who has a positive influence on their community. The “APA for Commitment to Social Cohesion and Community Life” recognizes an individual or legal entity who is committed to promoting social cohesion and community life through concrete actions and initiatives in their community.

The “APA for Integration,” which recognizes an individual or legal entity, an expatriate residing in Burkina Faso and carrying out actions and activities promoting peace, social cohesion, and harmonious coexistence. This individual is well integrated and contributes to development efforts in their host country, Burkina Faso. They also promote political and socio-cultural integration initiatives.

The “APA of the AES,” which recognizes an individual or legal entity from the AES region (Mali-Burkina-Niger) who is committed to promoting peace, social cohesion, and harmonious cohesion, and who promotes the principles and values on which the AES (Alliance of Sahel States) is founded.

The “APA of Honor,” which recognizes an individual or legal entity who is committed to promoting peace, social cohesion, and harmonious cohesion, and who supports the actions of the MPAP.

In addition to these distinctions, certificates of recognition will be presented to stakeholders and institutions to recognize their ongoing commitment and support for peace-promoting efforts in Burkina Faso, they announced.

The 5th edition of the Ambassadors of Peace Awards is under the patronage of His Majesty Bifaté II, head of the canton of Gaoua and the co-sponsorship of the President and CEO of Sofao Groupe SARL, Hamadé Ouédraogo, also President of the Regional Council of Employers of the Center; of the President and CEO of the Fortuna group, Roch Donation Nagalo, 5th Vice-President in charge of professional and umbrella organizations of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Burkina Faso (CCI-BF) and of the President and CEO of Socodifa International, Abdoul Fatao Ouédraogo.

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Africa, DEMOCRATIC PARTICIPATION

Niger: Agadez Mobilizes Its Traditional Chiefs for Peace

. DEMOCRATIC PARTICIPATION .

An article from Journal du Niger (translation by CPNN)

In the vibrant amphitheater of the Maison des Jeunes et de la Culture in Agadez, a major initiative was launched on Thursday, July 10, 2025. Under the chairmanship of Major General Ibra Boulama Issa, Governor of the region, a strategic workshop on the role of traditional leaders in promoting peace, security, and social cohesion was launched with a flourish. Bringing together traditional leaders, prefects, municipal administrators, and prominent figures such as the Sultan of Aïr, His Highness Oumarou Ibrahim Oumarou, this meeting marked a turning point in the mobilization of traditional authorities to build a more united and resilient Niger.

Agadez: Traditional Chiefs, Pillars of Peace and Stability in Niger

Before an audience of dignitaries, including the President of the Regional Office of the Association of Traditional Chiefs of Niger, General Boulama Issa set the tone for a day marked by collective commitment. Indeed, this workshop, initiated by the governorate, aims to equip the traditional chiefs of Agadez with the tools they need to play a central role in fostering a culture of peace, strengthening security, social cohesion, and non-violent conflict management. In a region facing complex challenges—insecurity, community tensions, and illicit activities such as gold mining—this training embodies a bold ambition: to make traditional leaders key players in the rebuilding of the Republic.

Moreover, the governor, in a speech imbued with conviction, emphasized the importance of these traditional figures in the fabric of Niger’s society. “You are the guardians of our values, the relays of our communities. “Your role is essential in promoting peace and supporting the authorities’ efforts in a context where cohesion is our greatest strength,” he said, according to participants. This vision places traditional leaders at the heart of a strategy aimed at anchoring local governance in the region’s cultural and social realities.

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(Click here for the original article in French.)

Question for this article:

Can a culture of peace be achieved in Africa through local indigenous training and participation?

The new military governments in Africa: Are they promoting a culture of peace?

(article continued from left column)

Strategic Training: When Ancestral Wisdom Meets Modern Challenges

The workshop, designed as a space for exchange and training, addressed crucial themes. Participants explored strategies to prevent intercommunity conflicts, encourage collaboration with the Defense and Security Forces, and promote dialogue as an alternative to violence. In a region like Agadez, a strategic crossroads in the Sahel, where tensions related to migration, banditry, and armed groups remain prevalent, these skills are vital.

The presence of the Sultan of Aïr, a respected figure and symbol of traditional authority, lent particular legitimacy to the event. Alongside departmental prefects and municipal delegated administrators, he embodied the union between tradition and modernity, an essential balance for meeting contemporary challenges. The discussions also highlighted the role of traditional leaders in intelligence gathering and community outreach, strengthening their position as a bridge between citizens and institutions.

Agadez: A Regional Response to Security and Cohesion Challenges

This workshop is part of a series of initiatives undertaken by the governorate to consolidate stability in Agadez. Following the meeting in Injitan on July 9, where General Boulama Issa engaged with the Ihagaran community on similar issues, this training broadens the scope of regional engagement. By equipping traditional leaders with new skills, the authorities aim to create a network of leaders capable of defusing tensions and promoting harmonious coexistence in a context marked by security and social challenges. Participants also addressed practical issues, such as limited access to communications networks in some rural areas, which hinders coordinated peace efforts. In response, the governor promised to explore solutions to strengthen digital infrastructure, which is essential for security and development.

Niger’s Future: A Country United by Traditional Wisdom and Modern Commitment

In short, the Agadez workshop resonates as a call to unity and action. By placing traditional leaders at the heart of national reconstruction, General Boulama Issa and his team are sending a powerful message: peace and social cohesion are everyone’s business. In a region where tradition is a driving force, this event marks a decisive step in transforming challenges into opportunities.

The echoes of the MJC now resonate throughout Agadez. Newly equipped, traditional leaders are preparing to become the architects of a more peaceful Niger. With the support of the Sultan of Aïr and regional authorities, they also embody the hope of a society where ancestral wisdom and modern commitment converge to build a stable and prosperous future.

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Africa, DEMOCRATIC PARTICIPATION

Teaching Peace: Nurturing Young Peacemakers in Ghana through Education

… EDUCATION FOR PEACE …

An article by Mohammed Ibrahim from Peace News

In a region where ethnic and religious diversity sometimes fuels tension, Ghana stands out as one of West Africa’s most peaceful nations. This reputation, however, cannot be taken for granted. 

In September 2024, Ghana experienced incidents of violence over upcoming elections. Other countries in the region such as Mali and Guinea have dealt with ethnic and religious violence in recent decades, including violence committed by youth. 

But efforts are being made to sustain harmony, particularly through peace education in schools. Peace education and sensitization programs aim to empower students as peace ambassadors. Schools across the Ashanti and Central Regions of Ghana are teaching peace education, where students learn conflict resolution skills, social justice principles, and the value of peaceful coexistence. 


Students of St Paul’s Catholic Basic School being taught a peace education lesson, photo by CRPC.

“Ghana is a diverse country with different tribes and religions. Despite this, we have remained peaceful,” said Dr. Charles Ohene-Amoh, the Regional Executive Secretary of the Central Regional Peace Council (CRPC) of Ghana’s National Peace Council  (NPC).  “To sustain this, we must instill the culture of peace in our young people,” he told Peace News Network (PNN). 

Promoting Peaceful Coexistence in Diversity

In January 2025, the CRPC collaborated with St Paul’s Catholic Basic School to educate students on peacebuilding, which is crucial for the country’s future stability.

The initiative was a peace education sensitization program themed “Peaceful Coexistence in Diversity.” The program focused on: strengthening students’ understanding of peaceful coexistence, reducing classroom conflicts and bullying, promoting peer mediation, and conflict resolution. Dr. Ohene-Amoh emphasized the need for peace education in schools. 

“We believe that one of the most effective ways to prevent conflicts is to educate the youth on how to live in harmony… Schools provide the perfect setting because students are already gathered in large numbers, making it easy to reach them,” he said.

He highlighted that schools reflect the country’s diversity, with students from various ethnic, religious, and cultural backgrounds. The program teaches them to embrace differences rather than allow them to become sources of conflict.

“When we visit schools, we see Muslims, Christians, and traditionalists learning together. We teach them to appreciate their diversity and to coexist peacefully. The results have been encouraging.”

The initiative has already shown positive outcomes. When the CRPC revisits schools where the program has been implemented, they observe noticeable improvements in student interactions. “We see fewer conflicts among students. They have become more tolerant and better at resolving disagreements peacefully,” Dr. Ohene-Amoh added.

Peace Education as a Tool for Conflict Prevention

Beyond promoting peaceful coexistence, the program also prepares students for the future. Many of them may later join law enforcement agencies or other security sectors, where their conduct will be scrutinized.

“We made them understand that their behavior in school could affect their future careers. Many didn’t realize that background checks are conducted before recruitment into security services,” Dr. Oene-Amoh said.

He said that additionally, the program introduced peace classes in schools where students voluntarily learn about conflict resolution and earn certificates for their participation. While attendance is not mandatory, students who participate are encouraged with certificates. This motivates them, Dr. Ohene-Amoh explained, to take peacebuilding seriously and apply these lessons in their communities.

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Question for this article:

Where is peace education taking place?

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The Ghanaian government has also contributed to maintaining peace in schools by banning demonstrations within educational institutions. This has significantly reduced violence on school premises. “Since the ban, we have not recorded any violent attacks in schools. Combined with peace education, this has created a safer learning environment,” Dr. Ahone-Amoh said.

Youth and Political Manipulation

One major concern in many African nations is the role of youth in political violence. Politicians often exploit young people’s energy and passion, leading them into conflicts. However, with proper peace education, students are less likely to be used as tools for political violence.

“With peace education, the youth will understand the dangers of being manipulated for political purposes. They will think critically before engaging in violent acts,” Dr. Ohene-Amoh stated.

The Challenge of Funding

Despite the program’s success, funding remains a significant challenge. The CRPC struggles to reach all 23 districts in the region due to financial constraints. “We write to organizations for support because our resources are limited. Without adequate funding, it is difficult to reach every student who needs this education,” he said.

“Train a Child, and They Will Not Depart from It”

Barbara Yabom, the CRPC’s Program Manager, described Ghana as one of Africa’s most peaceful countries, largely due to its emphasis on peace education. She cited a biblical proverb, “When you train a child in the right way, they will not depart from it when they grow.”

She emphasized that many young people who engage in violent behavior come from backgrounds where conflict resolution skills were not taught. She said that by training them in peacebuilding early, “we hope to create a generation that values harmony.”

To Yabom, peace education should be a continuous process to instill the values of forgiveness and tolerance. “We have received delegations from countries like Malawi and Ivory Coast who come to learn how Ghana maintains its peace. Peace education is part of our success story.”

She stressed that peace education should not only focus on adults, and noted that it is unfortunate that some people think it should. Yabom added that children are future leaders, and that teaching them these skills now will help them grow up to be responsible citizens who resolve conflicts peacefully.

Calls for Peace Education in the Curriculum

Sam, a senior high school tutor from Aggrey Memorial A.M.E Zion Senior High School Mr Appiah whose school participated in the peace education program, advocated for peace education to be included in the national curriculum, saying that it would help address the “culture of impunity” among students, and reduce their exposure to violent influences from social media.

He noted that many students are unaware of the laws governing juvenile violence. “Some think they can act violently without consequences because they are young. But with education, they will understand that even in school, they must obey the law.”

Appiah believes peace education in schools plays a vital role in shaping students’ moral values. “If we sustain this effort, we will raise a generation of young people who value peace. ”

While challenges such as funding issues persist, the impact of peace education in Ghanaian schools is evident. By instilling values of tolerance, respect, and conflict resolution in students, Ghana is not only securing its present peace, but also building a future where harmony prevails.

As Dr. Ohene-Amoh aptly put it: “Peace is not merely the absence of conflict but the presence of justice and tolerance.”

(Editor’s note: Thank you to Transcend News Service for calling our attention to this article.)

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PLANETE: Scouts in Africa and Europe leading change in peace, gender, and sustainability

. TOLERANCE & SOLIDARITY .

An article from the website of World Scouting

The PLANETE project (Acting for Peace, Freedom, Learning, Nature, Equity, Tolerance, and Environment) is empowering over 7,000 Scouts and Guides across five countries and two continents to drive meaningful change in key areas like gender equality, education for peace and climate change education. 

Led by the Scouts and Guides of France, in partnership with the Scouts of Lebanon, the Association of Guides of Lebanon, the Rwanda Scouts Association, Rwanda Girl Guides Association, the Tunisian Scouts, and the Association of Catholic Scouts of Côte d’Ivoire, this initiative is aiming to reach more than 11,000 Scouts and Guides from 14 to 25. Together, they are leveraging the educational methods of Scouting and Guiding to promote peace, environmental sustainability, and gender equality.

Through workshops, camps, training sessions, advocacy campaigns, and other activities, participants are becoming powerful ambassadors for positive change within their communities. These Scouts and Guides are engaging in citizen mobilisation, partnering with local authorities to advance sustainable, equitable, and fair societies. Funded by l’Agence française de développement (French Development Agency), the project provides young people with the tools and skills necessary to create a brighter future.

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Question related to this article:
 
Are we seeing the dawn of a global youth movement?

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A key milestone of the PLANETE project occurred in August 2024, when Scouts and Guides from across the globe gathered in Rwanda for an international camp. Held from 25 to 31 August, the event focused on the pivotal role Scouting plays in fostering peace and tolerance. Drawing inspiration from Rwanda’s history of resilience and recovery, participants engaged in discussions and activities centred on intercultural understanding and reconciliation. These shared experiences reinforced the importance of dialogue and cooperation in the quest for a more peaceful world.

The PLANETE project also places a strong emphasis on environmental action. In France, Scouts participated in an ecological camp in Brittany in July 2024, focusing on biodiversity conservation and sustainable living. With no access to electricity and fully immersed in nature, Scouts participated in practical activities such as waste collection, vegetation maintenance, and raising awareness in local communities. 

Similar environmental initiatives are taking place in other participating countries, with Scouts leading efforts to protect natural environments and advocate for sustainability.

Looking ahead, the project will maintain its focus on environmental sustainability, peace, and gender equality through various initiatives. In 2025, several ecological camps will be organised across the five participating countries, where young participants will tackle critical issues such as climate change, conservation, and ecological transition. Additionally, from August 9 to 15, an international camp on interfaith dialogue will take place in Tunisia, bringing together seven delegations from partner organisations. This activity will empower participants to become ambassadors of peace and take initiative in their communities.

Creating a more inclusive, peaceful, and sustainable world begins with education, community engagement, and international collaboration. The PLANETE project is igniting a global movement of young leaders, with Scouts and Guides turning their ideals into tangible actions that inspire lasting change.

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