Students from Mbamba Bay Primary School hold cards on the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
Global Peace Foundation (GPF) Tanzania’s signature project #VijanaNaAmani255 is mobilizing youth to increase their engagement and participation in peacebuilding for resilient communities. The project was launched in 2022, focusing on communities along Tanzania’s southern border. #VijanaNaAmani255 is supporting the East African Plan of Action on Youth, Peace, and Security and is a collaboration between GPF Tanzania, the Prime Minister’s Office, Tanzania Scouts Association, Mwalimu Nyerere Foundation, Youth of United Nations Association of Tanzania, and Global Network of Religions and Children (GRCF) with the support of the United Nations Development Program (UNDP).
GPF Tanzania hosted peacebuilding workshops for primary school students located in the wards most vulnerable to violent extremism in November 2022. The awareness-building programs empower students and their families with knowledge and tools to engage in community peacebuilding with the guidance of teachers and scout group leaders.
A student from Michenjele Primary School, Aziza Salum, said she was proud to be a part of the program. “Through this training, I have learned many things, including conflict resolution. My friends were in disagreement in the classroom, so I strengthened them and educated them about living in peace and abandoning strife. And now we are in peace. There is no more separation in the classroom.”
In January 2023, GPF Tanzania organized peace clubs in other regions, including Mikocheni Secondary School in Tanzania’s Kinondoni District. Volunteers mentored students on various community-driven peacebuilding topics, environmental issues, and the importance of fostering a culture of service through volunteerism. Thirty-six students registered as new peace club members after the program.
The #VijanaNaAmani255 program continues to expand its network through both in-person events and an online campaign to inspire youth to become peacebuilders in their communities.
GPF Tanzania Director Martha Nghambi (center) with students from Mpepo Primary School.
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