Introduction: In 2023, Chemchemi Ya Ukweli (CYU) continued its dedicated efforts towards peacebuilding and promoting good governance in Kenya, focusing particularly on implementing the Freedom of Religion and Belief project in Nakuru, Migori, Kakamega, and Isiolo counties. The primary aim remained steadfast – to foster peaceful and just societies where all individuals can freely exercise their religion and beliefs without fear or discrimination.
Main Goals and Impact: Throughout the year, CYU worked tirelessly towards its overarching goal of creating inclusive, open, and constructive religious communities. This was achieved through two main pathways: intra-religious and inter-religious engagements. The organization’s efforts had a medium impact, as evidenced by the significant strides made in building cohesive communities where diverse religious beliefs are respected and celebrated.
Activities:
Trainings on Active Non-violence and Trauma Healing Awareness: CYU conducted comprehensive training sessions aimed at equipping community members with skills in active non-violence and trauma healing awareness. These sessions served as crucial tools in resolving conflicts peacefully and addressing the underlying trauma prevalent in many communities.
Women leaders undergoing through Active non-violence and trauma healing awareness session in Njoro sub county Nakuru
Trainings on Transformational Leadership: Recognizing the pivotal role of leadership in fostering positive change, CYU organized training workshops focused on transformational leadership. These sessions empowered individuals to become effective leaders capable of inspiring and mobilizing their communities towards peace and reconciliation
Isiolo participants are keenly following the facilitators in their Transformational Leadership Training
Community Outreaches through Magnetic Theatre Performances: CYU utilized the powerful medium of magnetic theatre performances to engage with local communities. These performances served as platforms for raising awareness on religious tolerance, social cohesion, and the importance of peaceful coexistence.
Magnetic theatre outreach in Masara market Migori
Dialogue Meetings: Facilitating dialogue remained a cornerstone of CYU’s approach. Throughout the year, the organization organized numerous dialogue meetings bringing together individuals from diverse religious backgrounds. These dialogues provided safe spaces for open and honest discussions, fostering understanding and empathy among participants.
Participants after their mentorship meeting at Butshotso location in Kakamega
Mentorship Meetings: CYU continued its mentorship initiatives, providing guidance and support to individuals actively involved in peacebuilding efforts. These mentorship meetings played a crucial role in nurturing future leaders committed to promoting peace and justice in their communities.
A youth member of Bunge la Mwanainchi Shirere ward in Kakamega airing his concern about peace and security in their area during CYU staffs visit
Achievements
Throughout 2023, Chemchemi Ya Ukweli (CYU) made significant achievements in the implementation of the Freedom of Religion and Belief (FORB) project across Nakuru, Migori, Kakamega, and Isiolo counties in Kenya. The project aimed at fostering peace and justice in societies where individuals can freely exercise their religious beliefs without fear or discrimination. Here are some notable achievements:
- Increased Awareness and Understanding: CYU successfully raised awareness and enhanced understanding of the importance of freedom of religion and belief within the target communities. Through various outreach programs, training sessions, and dialogue meetings, community members gained insights into the fundamental principles of religious tolerance and respect for diversity.
- Empowerment through Training: The organization conducted comprehensive training programs on active non-violence, trauma healing awareness, and transformational leadership. These trainings equipped community members with practical skills and knowledge necessary for conflict resolution, trauma healing, and effective leadership, thereby empowering them to play active roles in promoting peace and justice.
- Community Engagement through Magnetic Theatre: CYU effectively engaged with local communities through magnetic theatre performances. These performances served as powerful mediums for conveying messages of religious tolerance, social cohesion, and peaceful coexistence. By leveraging the arts, CYU captured the attention of diverse audiences and sparked meaningful discussions on the importance of respecting religious freedoms.
- Facilitated Dialogue and Understanding: The organization facilitated numerous dialogue meetings bringing together individuals from different religious backgrounds. These dialogues provided safe spaces for open and honest conversations, fostering mutual understanding, empathy, and respect among participants. Through constructive dialogues, CYU promoted reconciliation and strengthened social bonds within communities.
- Mentorship and Capacity Building: CYU provided mentorship and capacity-building opportunities for individuals actively involved in peacebuilding efforts. By nurturing emerging leaders committed to promoting peace and justice, the organization ensured the sustainability of its initiatives beyond the project duration. Through mentorship meetings, CYU supported the growth and development of a new generation of peace advocates.
Chemchemi Ya Ukweli (CYU) made significant strides in advancing its mission of peacebuilding and promoting good governance in Kenya in 2023. Through a range of strategic activities focused on fostering inclusive and constructive religious communities, CYU contributed towards creating a more peaceful and just society where the freedom of religion and belief is respected and upheld. As the organization looks towards the future, its commitment to building bridges and promoting dialogue remains unwavering, ensuring a brighter and more harmonious tomorrow for all.