Your support transforms lives
Help our local partners realise their vision of peace for their communities
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.
Nigeria
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.
South Sudan
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.
Nigeria
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.
