The Centre for Research, Training and publications (CRTP) organized a workshop on Reflective Peace Practice on 13th May, 2024 at Hekima Institute of Peace Studies and International Relations (HIPSIR). There were 16 participants, drawn from various institutions, majorly peace practitioners. The first session of the workshop was reflection on the findings of the 2023 Conflict Monitoring Tool (CMT) research done by CRTP. The findings presented conflict levels in Kenya, South Sudan, DRC and Ethiopia countries, drivers, actors, and challenges as well as possible peace interventions for peace stability. In Kenya it was noted that conflict manifests mainly during electioneering period and subsequent months. On that note, peace practitioners pointed out that there should be policies regulating elections in the country, with clear conflict prevention measures during elections and how peace is maintained post-election In DRC, during the discussion it was evident that the presence of M23 group stirs up conflict in the Eastern part of DRC. In Ethiopia it was evident that the conflict is declining due to peace agreement that was signed in November 2022 but inter-communal conflicts and clashes were still erupting among different tribes. As for South Sudan the tension is high as the country is preparing for general election in December, 2024. The major question was how can the rebel group be engaged in peace talks and dialogue?
The second session of the discussions was mainly around the theory of change coupled up with practices which included lifelong learning and growth, conflict resolution skills, and how to engage with peacebuilding practitioners. During the discussion it came out that for some countries “revenge” is part of their practice in effort to restore in their country and this calls for peace practitioners to introduce the uncomfortable discussions on revenge into dialogue. This will open up and help different parties on issues like compensation/reparation. On lifelong learning and growth, the discussions revolved around matters of curiosity and exploration which includes; continuous self-reflection, seeking diverse perspectives, embracing challenges and adversity, adapting a growth mindset, engagement with diverse learning modalities, mentorship and guidance, integration of learning into practice and reflection as well as vision is key in ensuring peace stability.
In the discussion process, it came out that the main challenge facing peacebuilders is competition among organizations and peace actors, as well as lack of sharing key information on security matters. It was also noted that embracing perpetrators of violence as we engage with victims is essential in peace restoration process. One participant echoed,” We do not label the perpetrators as “gang groups”, but “youths at risk.” This makes them comfortable and they open up on what they are going through so we are able to help to reduce crimes.” Moreover, there ought to be heightened interest among peace builders to work collaboratively and preach messages of peace. This includes peace organizations partnering together for a common goal, expanding the network to reach masses as opposed to being competitive. The session was concluded with discussion of digital peacebuilding which entails the use of technology in peacebuilding advocacy. The use of social media and arts was much echoed by the panelist as this will give people particularly the youths an opportunity to come together to share, develop and nurture ideas on how to improve peace and human rights advocacy through the application of digital skills and technology.