Hundreds of young men and women drawn from different parts of the country on 7^th August 2022 pledged to promote peace and coexistence during and after the day of general election.

During the National Youth Prayer and Peace Concert held at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) in Nairobi, the young Kenyans committed to championing peace during and after the election while at the same time appreciating the diversity of others and promoting harmony. Dubbed ‘Mbogi ya Peace’, the event was geared toward ensuring youth commit to maintaining and preaching peace.

Speaking during the event, Dr Vimal Shah – Chair of the Mkenya Daima Steering Committee acknowledged the fact that this election year has been more peaceful compared to the previous year, attributing it to the civility of the Kenyan youth so far. He noted proactiveness in maintaining peace was important going forward, adding that Kenya should be ready for youth leadership. "Kenyans are peaceful people, let's make it our responsibility to maintain peace." He added.

Ms Nadia Ahmed Abdalla - Chief Administrative Secretary, Ministry of ICT, Innovation & Youth Affairs reminded the youth that there is Kenya beyond the ballot. She noted that the youth are the drivers of the economy whose abilities should be harnessed for the good of the nation as opposed to being misused by politicians. She urged the youth to apply emotional intelligence to avoid being carried away by negative feelings of rage.

"Peace is the foundation of development and cohesion that provides for a better future. I hereby commit, on behalf of young people, to be tolerant before and after the election and live peacefully, respect political opinions of others, champion and promote unity and peaceful coexistence. I stand together with fellow Kenyans to exercise my civic and democratic right to vote peacefully. I stand for peace." Stated CAS Nadia.

Mr Roy Sasaka Telewa - CEO, National Youth Council (NYC) highlighted the youth policy dialogues that have been spearheaded to ensure youth inclusion and participation in various processes. "Through our Youth Policy Dialogue, we have engaged various national leaders. We have ensured all leaders aspiring for various positions commit to maintain and promote peace and unity during and after the elections." He said.

Other speakers at the event included Dr Stephen Jackson - UN Resident Coordinator, Kenya; Dr Danvas Makori – Commissioner, National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC); Ms Nerima Wako – Director, Siasa Kenya; Mr Rasi Masudi – Director, Voter Education, Partnerships & Communications, Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC); Mr Israel Adam - National Secretariat Chair, Youth Empowerment and Development Network Kenya. Also present were heads of Electoral bodies from various African countries among other dignitaries.

The event, which was organized by the IEBC-Youth Coordinating Committee, in partnership with NYC and other partners, featured an inter-faith prayer and peace declaration ceremony. This was in acknowledgement of the fact that turning to God in such times gives comfort, hope and strength to overcome even the seemingly insurmountable challenges to humanity.