Building lasting peace requires inclusive dialogue, local leadership, and community-driven solutions. To mark International Day of Peace, the Coalition of Ethiopian Civil Society Organizations for Elections (CECOE) brought together diverse local voices across three of our Bequ Zega Hub, Adama, Bahir Dar, and Assosa for impactful conversations on peacebuilding, conflict resolution, and social cohesion.
Here is a look at how our hubs celebrated peace in action:
π Adama Civic Education Hub
CECOE convened students, government officials, media professionals, and traditional elders, including Abba Gadaas and Haadha Siinqees for an open conversation on peace. Beyond the absence of conflict, participants reflected on peace as mutual understanding, respect, and shared responsibility, culminating in a collective Pledge for Peace.
π Bahir Dar Hub
The hub hosted panel presentations highlighting indigenous conflict resolution mechanisms in the Amhara region and the role of media in peacebuilding. Community members and experts actively discussed the opportunities and challenges of utilizing both traditional resolution structures and media as tools for sustainable peace.
π Assosa Hub (Benishangul-Gumuz)
CECOE gathered leaders from religious councils, womenβs and youth associations, disability organizations, and regional development partners for experience-sharing and issue identification. A major highlight was showcasing the documented journey of the Peace Mothers, whose grassroots mediation work demonstrates the transformative impact of community-led interventions.
At CECOE, we believe peace is built every day through dialogue, education, and active civic participation.
π Learn more about our civic engagement programs and join the Bequ Zega movement at https://lnkd.in/emgpGuT6
