Wajir leaders call for coexistence during International Day of Peace

Leaders and the residents of Diif during the procession for International Peace Day. [Mohamed Saman, Standard]

The International Day of Peace 2024 was marked with celebrations in Diif, Wajir county, under the theme "Cultivating a Peaceful Culture."

The celebration brought together leaders, the community and peace advocates, highlighting the critical importance of peace and coexistence in the region.

The event was attended by Wajir South MP Mohamed Adow, Nominated MP Sulekha Harun, Garissa Women Representative Udgoon Siyad, and representatives from the Deris Wanaag umbrella, led by the Agency for Peace and Development (APiD).

Security officials and peace leaders were also present during the event on September 21, emphasizing the collaborative effort required to maintain stability in the border town, which lies at the frontier of Kenya and Somalia.

MP Mohamed Adow underscored the need for continued vigilance in preserving the peace in the area.

"Peace is a precious resource that we must guard jealously. It is the foundation of our development and prosperity. I urge our elders and community leaders to remain steadfast in their efforts to preach peace and resolve conflicts amicably," said Adow.

He emphasized the pivotal role of community elders in sustaining peace, urging them to continue to resolving disputes through dialogue.

Garissa Women Representative Udgoon Siyad called on the community to take a stand against gender-based violence and other social injustices.

"We must protect our women and girls from harm. Gender-based violence and defilement are not just crimes against individuals but against the fabric of our society. We need to work together to ensure that our communities are safe for everyone," she said, emphasizing the need for a unified approach in addressing these issues.

Nominated MP Sulekha Harun called on the community to prioritise education, particularly for girls, in the region.

"Education is the key to unlocking the potential of our communities. I urge all parents to ensure that their children, especially girls, have access to quality education. It is through education that we can break the cycle of poverty and build a peaceful and prosperous future," she said.

She also urged residents to overcome cultural barriers that hinder the education of girls.

Wajir Peace Elders chairman Sheikh Nur, highlighted the critical role of peace in the socio-economic development of the region.

"Without peace, there can be no development. It is our duty as elders to guide the community towards peaceful coexistence. Let us continue to be the voice of reason and ensure that our people live in harmony with one another," he said.

Nur called for unity and cooperation among communities in the area.

The event served as a reminder of the importance of peace, especially in border regions like Diif, where tension can easily escalate.

The leaders' messages resonated with the people, emphasizing the collective responsibility of every individual in building and sustaining a culture of peace.