In line with the global observance of the International Day of Peace (IDP) on September 21st, KRC-Uganda joined the worldwide community in a series of impactful events to mark this significant day. Recognizing the profound importance of peace in today’s world, the United Nations has designated this day as a call to action for a 24-hour worldwide ceasefire, with events ranging from a minute of silence to commemorative ceremonies.
This year’s International Day of Peace coincided with the midway point of the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). In recognition of this milestone, the SDG summit was held from September 18th to 19th, emphasizing the need for collective efforts to achieve more peaceful, equitable, and inclusive societies. The theme for 2023, “Actions for Peace: Our Ambitions for the Global Goals,” underscores the call to combat inequality, address climate change, and advocate for the safeguarding of human rights. KRC-Uganda embraced this year’s theme with a series of events in Bidibidi Refugee Settlement. Interactive Radio Talk Shows featured participants from UNHCR, the Office of the Prime Minister (OPM), Refugee Welfare Council Committee (RWC) representatives, local government officials, implementing partners, and community members. These shows provided a platform for discussions on peace-related issues, engaging a diverse range of stakeholders.
The commemoration included stakeholder review meetings, bringing together leaders from both host and refugee communities. A notable highlight was the inaugural Bidibidi Peace Convention, where academia, retired security personnel, implementing partners, political leaders, civil servants, and senior citizens gathered to discuss the theme, “Joining Forces to Address the Root Causes of Conflicts for Sustainable Peace.”
- The convention opened with a thought-provoking keynote address by an academician from MUNI University, setting the intellectual tone for the day. Students from schools supported by KRC-UGANDA showcased their talents through emotive poetry performances, and passionate debates were facilitated by the Peace Clubs, fostering a sense of community engagement.
- To extend the impact to the broader community, a significant community dialogue took place in Zone 5, Yangani cluster, drawing an impressive attendance of over 3000 individuals, including community leaders. The dynamic activities culminated in the official commemoration of the day in Village 10 of Zone One, with the esteemed presence of the state minister for Defence and Veterans' Affairs as the chief guest.
- The events organized by KRC-Uganda for the International Day of Peace 2023 reflect a commitment to the ideals of peace and sustainable development, emphasizing the importance of collective action in addressing the root causes of conflicts. Through a diverse range of activities, KRC-Uganda actively contributed to the global call for a more peaceful and inclusive world.