Responding to Deadly Conflicts in Western Kenya

Peace Centre in Mt. Elgon is community peace home that hosted  27 young people came together for an impactful Alternatives to Violence Project (AVP) basic workshop. The workshop aimed to equip youth with practical skills for nonviolent conflict resolution, fostering a culture of peace in a region often plagued by historical tensions and inter-community clashes.

Stories of TransformationDuring the workshop, one participant’s journey stood out—19-year-old Sarah, a reserved yet determined young woman from Kipsigon. Sarah shared how she had grown up witnessing violent disputes over land ownership, leaving her community fractured. "This workshop has given me the courage to speak up," she said, holding back tears after a session on active listening and building trust. By the end of the workshop, Sarah had volunteered to start a youth peace club in her village, emphasizing her resolve to "be a light where darkness has reigned."

Among the 27 participants, 18-year-old Janet from Landi B shared a moving story of personal transformation. Having lost a close relative in a past conflict, Janet arrived at the workshop burdened by grief and anger. During a session on a conflict i resolved non-violently , she broke down, expressing how the pain had consumed her for years. With support from facilitators and her peers, Janet worked through an exercise on letting go of past hurts. On the final day, she stood before the group and declared, “I’m leaving this workshop lighter and ready to help others solve there conflicts non-violently . I want to show my community that forgiveness is possible.”

Another memorable story came from Emmanuel, 21, who lives in the Chepyuk area the neighbour to the peace centre. Emmanuel admitted he joined the workshop feeling sceptical about its impact. "I’ve been part of other peace initiatives and a neighbour to the peace centre, but they felt like lectures, not solutions," he remarked. However, after learning about Transforming Power, he realized the personal responsibility he holds in diffusing tensions within his peer group. Emmanuel shared how he had resolved a brewing conflict between two of his friends during the second day of the workshop, applying the skills he had just learned.

Engaging Activities

The workshop featured dynamic sessions, including role plays, personal storytelling, and team-building exercises that emphasized nonviolence, empathy, and cooperation. One particularly powerful activity was the "Light and Livelies," which allowed participants to connect through humour and creativity while breaking down barriers of mistrust.

Facilitators encouraged open dialogue on sensitive issues, including land disputes and ethnic differences, creating a safe space for youth to reflect on their roles as change agents. Participants were also guided in developing action plans tailored to their communities, ensuring the workshop's impact extended far beyond its three days.