Community Structures Trained in Peacebuilding and Mediation to Foster Conflict-Free Society

In an effort to build a peaceful, conflict-free society, community structures within Traditional Authority Kilupula in Karonga have undergone training in peacebuilding and mediation.

This two-day training session, organized by the Pamoza Tingakwaniska Youth Organization, brought together over 20 participants, including representatives from mother groups, youth organizations, community policing forums, and local chiefs.

Barton Theu, Project Officer at Pamoza, pointed out that the absence of peacebuilding skills within community structures often escalates conflicts into violence.

“If communities are trained in peacebuilding and conflict prevention, it will reduce violence in society,” he said.

Theu was pleased with the delivery of the training and the enthusiasm shown by the participants, adding that the training would foster a long-term impact in promoting a violence-free society.

“Those who received this training will act as change agents, valuing culture and peace and helping to reduce conflicts and violence,” he added.

Senior Group Village Headman Mwangomba described the training as timely, given the upcoming farming season when land disputes typically arise.

“We record a number of land disputes and gender-based violence cases here during the rainy season, so the skills and knowledge shared with us are valuable for resolving conflicts in my area,” he said.

Aaron Mwenelupembe, Secretary of the Karonga District Peace and Unity Committee and one of the facilitators, emphasized the significance of community involvement in peacebuilding.

“Through such training, people will learn to manage conflicts and address gender-based violence, contributing to the creation of peaceful communities,” he noted.

Pamoza Tingakwaniska is implementing this peacebuilding initiative in Karonga with funding from the UN Secretary General’s Peacebuilding Fund, facilitated by UNFPA Malawi in partnership with the Foundation for Civic Education and Social Empowerment (FOCESE).