By Cherry Oduor

“This year’s theme, ‘Local Youth Actions for the SDGs andBeyond’is more than just a slogan; it’s a call to action. We, the youth, are the heartbeat of change, turning the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into real-life impact in our communities.

We have the creativity, the networks, and the energy. Now’s the time to use our interfaith platforms to connect, learn, and build partnerships for a brighter future. We’re not just leaders of tomorrow, we’re the change-makers of today.

As the Youth Secretary of Mombasa Interfaith Youth, I’ve seen first-hand how powerful this platform can be. It’s given me the chance to learn, build skills, and take what I’ve learned into the community raising awareness and reducing inequalities.

Through the JISRA Project under the Inter-Religious Council of Kenya (IRCK), we’ve stepped into county policy spaces, especially in Mombasa’s CVE (Countering Violent Extremism) forums. We share ideas, push for solutions to prevent radicalization, and champion community engagement across all pillars.

We’ve hosted youth dialogues ahead of International Youth Day, making sure our voices are heard and amplified for a better Kenya. And we’re not stopping there. From youth maskanis to peace walks, we’re breaking barriers, building trust, and fostering understanding even in times when the relationship between communities and police is strained.

Let’s be digital peacebuilders. Spread positivity. Share accurate information. Avoid harmful content, hate speech, or anything that could fuel conflict. Remember the internet never forgets. “

Cherry Oduor, youth leader at the Mombasa Interfaith Network remarks during an event during the International Youth Day at Tononoka Social Hall.  The event that was well attended by county youth departments, security agencies in Mombasa County and members of the County Engagement Forum, discussed on reintegration initiatives of reformed youth. There was a candid discussion on youth issues, online radicalization and how to be safe in the cyberspace.  The local media platforms present at the youth event provided adequate coverage to raise awareness on this special occasion for the youth.

Read more: https://www.jumuiya.co.ke/stakeholders-urge-mombasa-youth-to-support-police-in-combating-crime/

 As youth, IRCK calls for all to utilize their digital spaces in advancing local youth actions. Interfaith youth networks can get involved through:

• Host conversations or activities that inspire others.
• Join or create platforms that unite people for peace.
• Be intentional both online and offline in making a difference.

Here’s to shaping a peaceful, united, and innovative future together.

We wish you all a happy International Youth Day.