Your support transforms lives
Help our local partners realise their vision of peace for their communities
Supporting local peacebuilders in conflict zones
Our local partners play an essential role in peacebuilding. Through sustained engagement, they develop trusted relationships with key stakeholders. They understand the nuances of existing local power structures and traditional institutions. They build a sense of local ownership of the peace process. Without their input, reconciliation initiatives are much less likely to succeed.
There are no quick fixes to resolving conflict. Power struggles are fraught with complexity. Old rivalries run deep. Yet a new and better way is possible. There is hope for an alternative vision for the future.
Women for Peace is located in the heart of Rayfield, Jos – a community that has suffered heavily from poverty and inter-communal violence. The project is attended by 40 women (20 Muslims and 20 Christians) who work together to coordinate educational activities, computer and literacy classes, baking, sewing and soap-making. After 9-18 months of skill acquisition, funds are raised to provide loans for women to generate an income and become self-sufficient. Women for Peace is a pillar of reconciliation in the community, embraced by local imams and pastors.
The Most Revd Moses Deng Bol, Archbishop of Northern Bahr el Ghazal and Bishop of Wau, is one the country’s most respected local peacebuilders. He chairs numerous peace committees, operating within existing local power structures and traditional institutions. His initiatives complement the myriad of community-based programmes, so there is less chance of duplicated activities.
Families in Bari village, Kano state, are severely affected by inter-communal violence. The local school and clinic are bridges for peace. Muslims and Christians stand shoulder-to-shoulder to promote inter-faith reconciliation. Conflict resolution is embraced as a community venture.
Local peacebuilders restore relationships so that peace can grow. They build bridges through patience and sustained engagement. They are sensitive to the values and culture of their communities. They understand the aspirations of people at the grassroots – as they’re also affected by conflict. Local peacebuilders acknowledge hurt on all sides and examine difficult issues with an open mind.
We have been able to bring Muslims and Christians together in an unprecedented way. We eat together and visit one another in the community. The peaceful and mutual respect for one another is exemplary.
Women for Peace, Nigeria
Working together every week has created a platform for interaction and understanding which has eroded most of the animosity previously existing between the Christian and Muslim groups.
Hassan John, HART partner in Nigeria
The local school is a bridge for peace and unity. Christian and Muslims work alongside each other. It is possible to work together happily.
Bishop Idris Zubairu, Bishop of Bari, Kano State
People say Muslims and Christians cannot live together. We show they are wrong.
The Anglican Bishop of Bauchi, Musa Mwin Tula
Your support transforms lives
Help our local partners realise their vision of peace for their communities