Themed "Together for
Peace: Respect, Safety and Dignity for All”, the day was an occasion for individuals,
organisations and nations to come together in a spirit of hope and act towards
a unified and peaceful world. This year’s theme aimed to create awareness on
the importance of all segments of the society to work together to strive for
peace.
The celebration of the
event by Girl Power Clubs was play-based, a technique that proved successful as
everyone seemed to enjoy themselves as they learnt about the importance of
keeping peace in their communities. The games included: Communities for Peace;
Followers for Peace and Leaders for Peace, and each of them was followed by very
emotive discussions where Joy Akim, the facilitator, engaged the girls on what
it takes to be leaders for peace. The discussions revolved around matters like:
i) What makes space peaceful or unsafe, ii) Actions people need to make space
safe and iii) Taking leadership in promoting peace among community members.
This year’s Peace Day
comes at a time when Kenya, an ethnically and religiously diverse nation is
facing uncertainty on whether or not peace will hold following a repeat of
presidential elections to be held in a few weeks to come. The repeat election
follows an annulment by the Court, of the election held on 8th
August 2017. The event therefore proved useful in reminding people, regardless
of age, gender or ethnic background why they need to maintain peace in their
communities.
Through the games played
by the girls on Peace Day, Girl Power Clubs hoped to demonstrate that we all
have the capacity for peace within us and that we must set aside our
differences and stand together to provide a voice for the country and the
planet.
The International Day of
Peace ("Peace Day") is observed around the world each year on 21
September. Established in 1981 by unanimous United Nations resolution, Peace
Day provides a globally shared date for all humanity to commit to Peace above
all differences and to contribute to building a Culture of Peace.
