The Tafakari Digital Reflexive Peacebuilding Academy, convened by the Centre for Research, Training and Publications (CRTP) at Hekima University College in Nairobi, took place from 4th -8th May 2026, The Academy brought together a total of (30 participants), youth, women and experienced  peacebuilders from the Democratic Republic of Congo, Burundi, Kenya, Central Africa Republic (CAR), Nigeria, Rwanda and the wider Great Lakes Region for an intensive five-day learning experience on Reflexive digital peacebuilding. More than a technical training, the academy fostered a reflexive model of peacebuilding that encouraged participants to critically examine their identities, motivations, and roles as agents of peace in increasingly digitized conflict environments. By combining self-reflection with practical digital skills, the academy repositioned peacebuilding as both a personal and collective responsibility.

Over the five days, participants gained practical and integrated skills in conflict analysis, digital storytelling, interview skills, short video production and editing, and strategic communication for peacebuilding. Through interactive sessions and hands-on learning, they explored digital tools such as Inshot, Capcut, and Canva, while also building competencies in scripting, video production, podcasting, and social media handles such as LinkedIn as well as social media engagement skills.

The academy further underscored the growing importance of digital literacy in contemporary peacebuilding. Participants learned how to strategically design and amplify content for different audiences rather than simply sharing information online. Training sessions highlighted the value of authenticity, emotional connection, and community relevance in shaping meaningful peace narratives. A key lesson throughout the academy was that impactful storytelling does not depend on sophisticated technology, but on the courage to share real experiences and connect humanly with audiences.

Equally important was the academy’s strong emphasis on community ownership, collaboration, and regional solidarity. Through mentorship circles, peer exchanges, and collaborative project development, participants designed practical peace-tech initiatives aimed at addressing challenges within their communities. The proposed Tafakari Digital Peacebuilding Hub in Goma and Bukavu emerged as a promising platform for sustaining youth-led digital peace initiatives, strengthening cross-border collaboration, and amplifying community-driven peace efforts across the Great Lakes Region.

Key take a way points

  1. Peacebuilding begins with personal identity and reflection-The academy demonstrated that effective peacebuilding is grounded in a strong understanding of one’s motivation, values, and lived experiences. Participants discovered that clarity about their personal “why” strengthens long-term commitment, authenticity, and resilience in peace work.
  2. Digital storytelling is a powerful tool for humanizing conflict and inspiring action-Participants learned that impactful stories are built on truth, tension, and transformation rather than technical perfection. Authentic narratives rooted in lived realities can shift perceptions, amplify marginalized voices, promote healing, and mobilize communities toward peace
  3. Strategic digital engagement is essential for modern peacebuilding-The academy highlighted that successful digital peacebuilding requires more than posting content online. Understanding algorithms, audience segmentation, platform dynamics, engagement strategies, and content amplification is critical for ensuring peace narratives reach and influence the intended audience
  4. Community-led and youth-driven peace initiatives are more sustainable and impactful-The Tafakari Hub model reinforced the importance of empowering youth and communities to lead their own digital peacebuilding efforts across the Great Lakes Region.