The Inter-Religious Council of Kenya in collaboration with Mvita, Changamwe and Jomvu peace committees commemorated this year’s International Day of Peace at Simitini Grounds in Mvita Sub-County of Mombasa County. Mvita Deputy County Commissioner Mr. Charles Monari flagged off a peaceful procession at Tudor Chiefs Camp. The procession proceeded to Simitini in Moroto where the celebration was held.
Speaking at the event Mr. Feisal Bahero, the chair of Mvita Peace committee, reminded the public that the International Day of Peace is celebrated globally. “The theme of this year’s International Day of Peace is Climate Action for Peace. Having consulted my committee, we plan to lead a tree planting drive in this area. We have seen the mangrove vegetation reduce as a result of climate change. We will plant 1,000 trees in the coming year to demonstrate our commitment to promoting peace not only among ourselves but with the environment.”
Pastor John Ouma, Chair of Mombasa accountability team, spoke on behalf of the faith groups stated that protection of the environment is not a choice because mankind was commanded by God to do so. He said that Religious Leaders in the County are committed to working with the security personnel to bring about sustainable peace.
Addressing over four hundred attendees drawn from the local community, leadership of the faith groups in Mombasa, peace committee members and other stakeholders Mr. Monari stated, “Peace is the responsibility of each and every community member. The county security team cannot achieve much without meaningful involvement and support from the community. While we continue to beef up security in this sub-county, I call on parents, elders in the community and religious leaders to support the youth who are often swayed into crime due to a number of reasons”. He further stressed that although he was only a week old in his new position, he is not new to public service and will maintain an open door policy so as to strengthen ties with the residents of the sub-county.
The area member of parliament Hon. Abdulswamad Shariff together with the county administration led by the Deputy County Commissioner and Religious Leaders unveiled a “wall of peace”. The wall will be a reminder of the unity in diversity in Moroto which happens to be a cosmopolitan informal settlement in Mvita Sub County.
The team thereafter proceeded to Mji wa Salama children’s home where the peace committee members and religious leaders shared a meal with the children and planted several trees on the compound.
By Rolex Mwamba
