An arts-based peace building initiative is transforming young people into peace ambassadors in Kwale County by promoting non-violence, dialogue and community cohesion.
The project, ‘Sauti ya Vijana wa Sanaa na Amani Mtaani’, is being implemented by Amani Peoples Theatre Organisation and targets youth as key actors in preventing violence and strengthening patriotism at the community level.
Speaking during a peace stakeholders’ forum held in Diani, Amani Peoples Theatre Programmes Coordinator Evans Kyalo said the initiative seeks to change the long-held perception of young people as contributors to insecurity.
“Young people are often blamed for violence, yet many are struggling with other challenges including unemployment and exclusion. This project equips them with skills to become part of the solution,” said Kyalo.
The project was launched in May last year following consultations with key stakeholders and is currently being implemented in Msambweni, Kinondo and Ukunda areas.
Kyalo said art was deliberately adopted as an engagement tool to effectively reach young people and the wider community.
“Art speaks directly to young people and enables us to pass messages on peace building, community responsibility and collaboration with local leaders,” he said.
In its first phase, the project directly engaged 335 young people, with equal representation of young women and men, through forums, training and art-based activities focusing on non-violence and social cohesion.
The initiative also incorporated digital peace building, reaching more than 300,000 people through radio drama clips and social media platforms to amplify peace messages beyond the project areas.
According to Kyalo, feedback from participants led to a shift towards practical skills development, particularly in non-violence and conflict resolution.
“Youth asked for skills they can apply in real life, and we responded by strengthening training in conflict management,” he said.
The project mainly targets young people aged 18 years and below, a group Kyalo noted is vulnerable to exploitation, especially during politically sensitive periods.
In Msambweni Sub-County, the programme addressed organised youth violence commonly referred to as panga boys by focusing on underlying causes such as historical injustices, cultural disputes and unresolved community conflicts.
Kyalo said the organisation is working closely with Nyumba Kumi committees, local administrators and community leaders to promote accountability and dialogue.
“As a result, over 120 youth groups have been formed to pursue opportunities in the marine sector and government programmes, redirecting energy that previously fueled crime,” he said.
Kyalo urged young people to shun violence, crime and drug abuse, noting that youth are the most affected during periods of unrest.
“Young people lose the most when violence occurs and gain the most when peace prevails,” he said.
He called on the youth to safeguard peace as political activities intensify.
“The future of this country belongs to young people. They must choose peace and refuse to be used for selfish interests,” he said.
By Chari Suche
