Exploring the Space for Young People in Peacebuilding in Coastal Communities of Tanzania and Kenya is our latest report, which aims to explore the intersection between youth, culture and peacebuilding along the Swahili Coast of Kenya and Tanzania. The report also seeks to identify existing and potential spaces for young women and men to exercise positive leadership and influence in addressing conflict, security and peacebuilding issues.
The research shows that the contribution of young people to peace and security is inhibited by a range of factors such as lack of access to economic resources, limited trust between young people and elders, particularly security actors, and marginalisation of young people from decision-making platforms. The report highlights the need to acknowledge and leverage cultural and ‘everyday’ spaces, values and practices for peacebuilding and the need to change perceptions of young people as agents for peace.
This report is a synthesis paper which consolidates findings from two case studies undertaken along the Swahili Coast of Kenya and Tanzania through interviews and focus group discussions. The Horn International Institute for Strategic Studies and by the University of Dar Es Salaam undertook this research. Our project partners TABUFO (Mtwara), 4H Tanzania (Tanga), Stretchers Youth Organisation (SYO), and other local CSOs were also instrumental in facilitating data collection and supporting the research.
Peaceful Change initiative produced this report under the Kujenga Amani Pamoja programme implemented by WeWorld and co-funded by the European Union. The report is available in English and Swahili on the following links:
Peaceful Change initiative and WeWorld hosted a virtual discussion to present this report. Watch a recording of the online event below: