Africa: International Day of Peace

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A survey by CPNN

The following 33 actions in 19 African countries include those listed in Google during the weeks of September 16-28 this year under the key words “International day of peace” and “Journée internationale de la paix.” The events also include some listed on the facebook page for the International Cities of Peace and the website of Campaign Nonviolence.

For events in North Africa see the page of actions in the Arab States .

Cameroon, Yaoundé

Here are excerpts from the articles.

AFRICAN UNION

Addis Ababa, 21 September 2026: The Chairperson of the Peace and Security Council (PSC) of the African Union (AU), H.E. Amb. Hervé D. DJOKPE, Permanent Representative of the Republic of Benin to the African Union and Chairperson of the Peace and Security Council for the Month of September 2026, on behalf of the PSC, joins the international community in commemorating the International Day of Peace under the theme “Invest in Peace: For Everyone, Everywhere, Every Day.” The Chairperson of Council expresses its deep appreciation to UNESCO for convening the commemoration of the International Day of Peace and to the Government of Angola for its enduring partnership in advancing the Pan African Forum for the Culture of Peace – the Luanda Biennale. The PSC seizes this opportunity to encourage all Member States to redouble their efforts to promote peaceful, diverse, tolerant and inclusive communities and societies. The PSC also encourages Member States, political parties, civil society organizations, the media, community and faith leaders, women and youth groups, academia, professional bodies. to embrace and promote the culture of tolerance and appreciation of the value of unity in diversity within the letter and spirit of Ubuntu.

BURUNDI

On this International Day of Peace, the First Lady of Burundi, HE. Angeline Ndayishimiye participated, on 21.9.206, in the high-level event on Women, Peace and Security, co-organized by the African Union Office of the Special Envoy on WPS

CAMEROON

Held under the theme “Investing in peace for all, everywhere, every day,” the 45th edition of the International Day of Peace was launched on September 16, 2026, via a national online forum bringing together government agencies, defense forces, civil society, and the diaspora to reflect on peacebuilding in Cameroon. Each agency outlined its specific area of ​​action. The Ministries of Secondary Education (MINESEC) and Basic Education (MINEDUB) are focusing on civic and moral education in schools, extracurricular activities, and the strengthening of civic-mindedness. The National Gendarmerie and National Police highlighted their mission to ensure the safety of people and property, a role supported by awareness-raising campaigns against violence. The National Youth Council (CNJC) showcased its dialogue platform, where young people are consulted on issues such as femicide and various forms of violence. Representing civil society, Local Youth Corner presented the Youth, Peace, and Security Agenda and its “N’a We We Jamboree” concept, which is set to expand to all ten regions. NewSETA highlighted its work promoting peace and democratic values ​​since 2013, while Women in Alternative Actions cited its national peace camp and “Queens for Peace” program.

CAMEROON

To mark the International Day of Peace, the NGO Wem’Afrika is organizing a webinar on: Silencing the Guns in Africa: Responding to Armed Conflicts, Military Coups & Emerging Security Threats Join us as we discuss peace, security, conflict prevention, and what we can do to contribute to a more peaceful Africa.

CAMEROUN, BUEA

Hundreds of congregants from the Presbyterian Church in Cameroon (PCC) gathered on Sunday, September 13, 2026, to celebrate the International Day of Peace. Meeting in Buea at the PC New Town Airport congregation—part of the East Mungo South Presbytery—the Christians transformed the traditional Sunday service into a vibrant platform advocating for non-violence and social cohesion.

CAMEROUN, YAOUNDE

To mark the 45th International Day of Peace, celebrated on September 21, 2026, various civil society organizations and government representatives took part in a citizens’ march in Yaoundé on Saturday, September 19, 2026, to promote peace and living together.
Coordinated by the Ministry of Youth and Civic Education (MINJEC), the citizens’ march for peace and living together brought together civil society organizations, youth movements, and public authority representatives. Combating femicide and infanticide was a central theme of the event. Organizers called for a collective effort to protect women, girls, and children, and to fight against the violence targeting them.

CENTRAL AFRICAN REPUBLIC, BANGUI

On Friday, September 18, 2026, MINUSCA held a press briefing in Bangui to announce the upcoming International Day of Peace, scheduled for September 21. This year’s theme is: “Investing in peace in the Central African Republic: diverse perspectives on achievements, challenges, and future outlooks.” During the event, journalists and bloggers engaged in a discussion regarding the media and the culture of peace. The session was led by the President of the High Council for Communication, who highlighted the media’s social responsibility regarding the prevention of hate speech, the fight against disinformation, and the promotion of peaceful coexistence. For his part, Souleymane—MINUSCA’s Civil Affairs representative and principal coordinator of field offices—reiterated the mission’s support for national peace priorities, as well as its backing of dialogue and conflict prevention mechanisms.

CHAD, N’DJAMENA

On Monday, September 21, 2026, the Ombudsman Institution, in cooperation with the United Nations, celebrated the International Day of Peace at the headquarters of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The 2026 session, held under the theme “Investing in Peace for All, Everywhere, Every Day,” was dedicated to discussing issues of peace, reconciliation, and social cohesion. The opening ceremony was attended by Prime Minister Ambassador Lamai Halina, along with officials from republican institutions, members of the government, and representatives from the United Nations and partner organizations. In his speech, the UN Humanitarian Coordinator in Chad, Dr. Francois Batalingaya, stressed that peacebuilding is not the responsibility of one institution alone, but requires the combined efforts of the state, local groups, communities, traditional and religious authorities, civil society, the media, the private sector, and international partners. Video on YouTube

CHAD, N’DJAMENA

On the occasion of the International Day of Peace, celebrated on September 21, 2026, the Chadian Socialist Intellectuals for Evolution (PISTE) called for strengthening dialogue, social cohesion, and appeasement in Chad. During a press conference in N’Djamena, the party advocated for the consolidation of peace, which it considers essential for the country’s socio-economic development and the well-being of its people. PISTE welcomed the presidential pardon granted to several political figures and called for further appeasement measures. On the political and institutional front, the party calls for the payment of subsidies to political parties, the restructuring of the CPDP (National Political Dialogue and Democracy Committee), and the establishment of a unity government that includes the country’s various political and social components.

CHAD, SARH

On the occasion of the International Day of #Peace, observed this Monday, September 21, 2026, the Préfixe Tchad Association calls upon the citizens of the Moyen-Chari province to make peace a shared responsibility. Its coordinator, Ndilabaye Ngarmadji, issued a statement at the organization’s headquarters, located in the Gardolet neighborhood of Sarh’s 5th municipal district.

COTE D’IVOIRE, SÉGUÉLA

To mark the International Day of Peace—observed annually on September 21 by the United Nations—the Youth Sounding Board Côte d’Ivoire, supported by the European Union, is organizing a regional meeting in Séguéla. The event focuses on issues of peace, conflict prevention, and social cohesion within the Worodougou region. Format: An in-person meeting at the Séguéla Regional Prefecture, featuring official addresses, thematic discussions, and sessions to present the commitments made by participants. The event is free and open to all, reflecting the spirit of inclusion that characterizes the Youth Sounding Board Côte d’Ivoire’s efforts to empower young people as agents of peace and local development.

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF CONGO, CONGO, BUKAVU

On this day of commemoration, La Prunelle RDC ASBL [Non-Profit Association] calls upon the entire population and socio-political stakeholders to make peace a collective responsibility: prioritizing listening over division, dialogue over violence, fact-checking over rumor, and strict respect for human dignity.

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF CONGO, BUTEMBO-BENI

This year, National Justice and Peace Day is being celebrated on the eve of the International Day of Peace. This prompted the Diocesan Justice and Peace Commission (CDJP) of Butembo-Beni to organize a conference-debate in the conference hall at its offices, located at the Procure. In light of the nationally selected theme, the sub-themes “Terrorist ideology versus faith: the case of the ADF,” “Deterioration of the security situation and prospects for inclusive dialogue,” and “Extrajudicial conflict resolution and its role in harmonious coexistence: the experience of CDJP Butembo-Beni” will be explored between 9:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m. on Monday, September 21, 2026.

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF CONGO, KINSHASA

To mark the 2026 International Day of Peace, the Synergie des Femmes pour la Paix et la Sécurité (SFPS) is organizing a two-day event in Kinshasa on September 21 and 22, 2026, dedicated to recognizing the role of women and girls in conflict prevention, mediation, and peacebuilding in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Held under the theme “Women and girls: investing in peace, recognizing those who build it,” this initiative aligns with the international theme “Investing in peace – For everyone, everywhere, every day.” The SFPS, which brings together more than 150 women’s organizations and networks, also aims to renew its commitment to implementing the National Action Plan (NAP) 1325 on Women, Peace and Security.

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Question for this article

What has happened this year (2026) for the International Day of Peace?

Democratic Republic of the Congo

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GHANA, CAPE COAST

International Peace Day serves as a global reminder of the importance of peace and the value of non-violence. The CRPC marked this day at the Police Hall in Cape Coast. It was attended by the Ghana Police Service, Ghana Immigration Service, Ghana Prison Service, Ghana Fire Service, Religious leaders, Traditional Leaders, and students from secondary.

KENYA, KENYATTA UNIVERSITY

Kenyatta University has positioned university sport as a platform for peacebuilding, inclusion and social cohesion, bringing together more than 500 members of the University community and partners for a 10-kilometre walk to mark the International Day of University Sports and the International Day of Peace. The initiative brought together KU, UNESCO, the Kenya National Commission for UNESCO, the Association of African Universities and other partners in a shared demonstration of how sport can promote dignity, dialogue, inclusion and peaceful coexistence.

KENYA, KISUMU

Moyo Connect LGBTQ Group will host a peaceful community dialogue and awareness session in Kisumu focused on nonviolence, inclusion, mental health, and human rights. The event will encourage peaceful action, mutual support, and community engagement while promoting respect and dignity for all.

KENYA, KITUI

New Hope Community Initiative will coordinate three nonviolent campaign actions: (1) a community healing and dialogue circle to promote reconciliation, (2) a nonviolence education workshop for youth and community members, and (3) an advocacy campaign engaging local leaders to strengthen peaceful conflict resolution, active bystander intervention, and community safety. These actions will encourage collaboration, reduce violence, and build a culture of peace in Kitui County.

LIBERIA, MATADI

This year’s celebration will focus on the importance of safe, inclusive and responsible digital spaces, particularly for women, girls and young people. The Network will promote the message: PROTECT PEOPLE. PROTECT“ VOICES. PROMOTE RESPONSIBLE DIGITAL CITIZENSHIP.” The program will include a peace parade, keynote remarks, a panel discussion, youth and women’s reflections, and media engagement.
Expected guests and participants include representatives of the Government of Liberia, United Nations and development partners, civil society organizations, youth and women’s groups, media, community and religious leaders, and CPS Network partners. The President of the Press Union of Liberia, Mr. Julius Kanubah, has been invited as Guest Speaker.

MALI, BAMAKO

The International Day of Peace is scheduled for this coming September 21st. Here in Mali, however, the event was celebrated early—on Thursday, September 17, 2026—due to certain constraints. The observance took place at the Alioune Blondin Beye Peacekeeping School, centered on the theme: “Investing in people, institutions, and innovation for lasting peace.” This theme serves as a call for synergy to ensure better conditions for vulnerable communities. Watch this report for a recap of the International Day of Peace celebration.

MALI, BAMAKO

On the International Day of Peace, six civil society organizations signed a charter of commitment to peace. This took place in the presence of Mrs. Oumou Dicko, representative of UNESCO, as well as the president of the Universal Peace Federation, Mali section, Mr. Tiéoulé Satigui Sidibé. In this solemn declaration, the signatory organizations affirm, through this charter, their shared commitment to contributing to building a Mali where peace is a shared responsibility, where dialogue prevails over violence, where diversity is an asset, and where women and youth are fully engaged in peacebuilding. They thus pledge to join forces to make peace a lasting reality in communities and throughout Mali. The ceremony concluded with the signing of the wall of commitments by the initiating organisations (Regroupement des Orphelins RDO; Action Jeunes et Femmes pour le Developpement Durable; Universal Peace Federation UPF; Club Malien de Convergence CMC; Association des Scouts et Guides du Mali ASGM; Yeleen) and their partners

MAURITIUS

To mark the International Day of Peace, more than 400 participants took part in a peace march organized by Global Peace Chain Mauritius in Morcellement Saint-André on Monday, September 21. The initiative brought together people of different generations around the values ​​of unity, solidarity, tolerance, and mutual respect.

NIGER RADIO TELEVISION

On the sidelines of the International Day of Peace celebrations, the High Authority for Peace Consolidation and the Lac-Lac Network Association presented certificates of appreciation to various stakeholders who support their efforts to foster a culture of peace. Ten (10) recipients were honored—a gesture intended to encourage them to continue the fight for a culture of peace within the community.

NIGER, NIAMEY

“Investing in peace—for all, everywhere, every day”: this is the theme of the International Day of Peace, observed this Monday, September 21, 2026. The High Authority for Peace Consolidation discusses its importance for Niger. The Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) is the focus of a three-day workshop that opened this morning in Niamey.

NIGERIA, ABUJA

The Advanced Peace and Reconciliation Centre of Nigeria is pleased to announce its forthcoming United Nations International Day of Peace 2026 (World Peace Day) celebration. The event brings together peace advocates, community leaders, professionals, stakeholders and other members of the public for a meaningful gathering focused on peacebuilding, sustainable development and national security. Monday, 21 September 2026, National Merit Award House, Maitama, Abuja.

NIGERIA, MAKURDI, BENUE STATE

Youth, women and other relevant stakeholders in Benue State have signed a Peace Pact, committing themselves to peace, dialogue and non-violence during the 2027 elections. The stakeholders also agreed that they would not declare election results that had not been verified by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), insisting on the “ballot without bullets” stand. Drawn from the state’s three senatorial districts, the participants included Okada riders, tricycle operators, members of the National Union of Road Transport Workers, religious groups, women, and youths. They decided at the end of the commemoration of the 2026 International Day of Peace, held in Makurdi at the weekend. The week-long activities for the 2026 International Day of Peace were organised by the Benue State Commission for Peace and Reconciliation (BSCPR) in collaboration with the Strengthening Peace and Resilience in Nigeria (SPRiNG) programme, Lawyers Alert, Cheerful Hands Initiative, COOPI and other partners.

SENEGAL WEBINAR

Partners West Africa Webinar. To mark the International Day of Peace, we invite you to join a webinar on the theme: “Investing in Peace: A Focus on the Role of Women in the Face of Conflict, Disinformation, and Social Cohesion Challenges”, Monday, September 21, 2026, 3:00 PM UTC, Online via Zoom

SEYCHELLES, PRESIDENT

On this International Day of Peace, I join the International Peace Day Committee and its partners in calling upon every Seychellois to become an everyday architect of peace. Let us choose dialogue over division, understanding over prejudice and cooperation over confrontation. Let us protect the peace that generations before us have helped to build and invest in the peace we wish to leave for our children and grandchildren. Let us move forward together, united by our love for our country and our shared commitment to the common good of Seychelles. May peace continue to prevail in our homes, in our communities, across our islands and throughout the world.

SOMALILAND, HARGEISA

International Day of Peace at the Midnimo Academy. Somaliland at a Regional Crossroads. Peace; Security and the Future of the Red Sea. With Panelist Prof. Abdi Ali Jama, Moderator Hoodo Hira, Panelist Dayab Adan X. Ali and ten keynote speakers.

SOUTH SUDAN, UN MISSION

“People are at the heart of everything we do,” says SRSG and Head of UNMISS Anita Kiki Gbeho. On the International Day of Peace, hear her message on why putting people first is key to building lasting peace in South Sudan

TANZANIA, ZANZIBAR

Peace Day, September 21, 2026, will mark the 27th anniversary of Peace Day. A gathering comprising government officials, college and university students, invited guests, members of the public (including women and youth), journalists, and security forces (this gathering will be attended by a Guest of Honor ZANZIBAR LORD MAYER.

UGANDA, KAMWENGE

From the 483rd International City of Peace (ICP), Base Camp II, Rwamwanja–Nkoma, Kamwenge, Uganda, we wish you a peaceful and wonderful International Day of Peace. May this day remind us that peace begins with unity, love, dialogue and respect for one another.

UGANDA, MBARARA

Peace Academy Nakivale and GAPSAFRICA (Global Alliance for Peace and Solidarity for Africa) will organize a children-focused peace and nonviolence action from September 21 to October 2, 2026. Activities will include peace education, peace circles, art, storytelling, cooperative games, acts of kindness, environmental action, and a nonviolence pledge. GAPSAFRICA volunteers will facilitate the activities and engage the wider community.