By: Mohamed Sahr
In a demonstration of commitment to peace, Secure Her Empowerment for Peace (SHE4PEACE) led an impactful event to mark International Peace Day, under the theme “Act Now, Lead Together: Building Peace through Youth and Women’s Voices.”
The event brought together a variety of youth-led groups, civil society representatives, influencers, and peace campaigners. This vibrant gathering served as a resounding call to foster peaceful coexistence and promote non-violence throughout Sierra Leone.
Nyanda Emma Hamilton, the Focal Legal Person of SHE4PEACE, emphasized the importance of the walk in promoting peace and unity, especially among young people. She remarked that the sight of participants carrying placards with powerful peace messages demonstrated that the youth are not only willing but are already active champions of peace, ready to spread non-violent actions across the nation. Hamilton also highlighted the profound effects of peace, stating, “In times of peace, people move freely, businesses thrive, and development happens at a faster pace.”
Hamilton called for the decentralization of future peace walks, suggesting that increasing visibility and awareness in various districts would have a greater impact across the country.
Desrica Taylor of the West Africa Network for Peacebuilding (WANEP-SL) praised SHE4PEACE for spearheading the event and reminded participants of the broader implications of peace in Sierra Leone. In a country grappling with political polarization, high unemployment, gender inequality, and climate-induced challenges, Taylor emphasized that “Peace is not merely the absence of war, but also the presence of justice, fairness, and opportunity.”
She urged for increased investment in preventive peacebuilding, as well as a greater role for youth and women in national decision-making. Taylor also highlighted WANEP-SL’s efforts in dialogue, mediation, and civic education, which are critical to resolving conflicts without violence.
Alie Barrie, President of the Freetown Peace Club, stressed the importance of cultivating inner peace as a foundation for societal reconciliation. He noted the immense social pressures faced by young people, including drug misuse, which often hinders their ability to reach their full potential. *“Without peace, nothing is possible,” Barrie said, encouraging the youth to embrace peace in their everyday lives and within their communities.
Ambassador Bilkisu Jalloh, the National Youth Ambassador, applauded the collective spirit of the Peace Walk. She reminded attendees that global and regional bodies, such as the United Nations, African Union, and ECOWAS, continually emphasize the importance of living in harmony.
“Peace begins with the individual. If we all commit to it, Sierra Leone can thrive,” said Jalloh. She also underscored the critical role of education in peacebuilding and stressed the importance of unity between men and women as a key driver of national development.
The event was climaxed with art performances from the participants, accompanied by renewed calls for Sierra Leoneans to embrace tolerance, dialogue, and solidarity. These elements are seen as the bedrock of a stable and prosperous future for the nation.