International Day of Peace: Youth urged to work for a peaceful future

Young people across the country must work hard to build on the prevailing peace and stability in the country to ensure that future generations live happier and in a more stable environment.

The message was delivered, yesterday, to about 300 youths from across the country who gathered at Parliament Buildings in Kigali to celebrate the International Day of Peace.

Officials who addressed the youth included retired Anglican Bishop John Rucyahana, who is the president of the National Unity and Reconciliation Commission (NURC); MP François Byabarumwanzi, who heads the parliamentary Standing Committee on Unity, Human Rights and Fight Against Genocide; as well as Johnson Mugaga, acting executive secretary of NURC.

Participants spoke of Rwanda’s recovery from the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi and recent gains in peace and security.

However, experts say continuous efforts are needed to further foster peace and reconciliation in the country, especially among the youth who need build a united future without violence.

“Young people in Rwanda are the ones who will make sure that the country continues to be peaceful and that everyone continues to live in dignity,” Bishop Rucyahana said.

Officials at NURC said celebrating the Day of Peace provides an important opportunity for individuals, organisations, and nations to create practical acts of peace.

“It is a day for all people to come together in a spirit of hope and possibilities with a unifying spirit of peace and unity,” said Mugaga.

During discussions at Parliament Buildings, the youths were given the opportunity to share their experiences in peace building.

Monicah Kayesu, a student of the University of Rwanda, told fellow youth that everyone needed to create peace within their hearts and live in peace with their neighbours.

The New Times

UM– USEKE.RW