HLHfoundation launches peacebuilding project in Kwara State
The Human Light Humanitarian Foundation announced a new initiative titled “Advancing Peace, Unity, Empathy, and Inclusion” at a press conference on Monday, seeking to promote societal harmony across Kwara State.
The initiative, supported by Leap Africa and the Nigeria Youth Future Fund, aims to address growing concerns about peaceful coexistence in the State.
Waliu Olanrewaju Afolabi, the Program Lead of the foundation, emphasized the importance of tolerance, mutual respect, and understanding in securing a peaceful future.
“We are responding to a series of challenges that threaten peace in Kwara State by launching a comprehensive plan aimed at fostering harmony and understanding,” Afolabi explained.
The project is structured in phases over a 10-month period, focusing on civic enlightenment and peacebuilding through grassroots youth engagement.
Afolabi highlighted the establishment of a youth-led campaign to encourage active civic participation and leadership in peace efforts across all local government areas of the state.
“This effort includes a cornerstone project that engages youth as changemakers, equipped with the skills to promote peace in their communities,” Afolabi said.
He added that the initiative would maintain ongoing collaborations with youth to sustain peace efforts beyond the project’s lifespan.
The foundation plans extensive engagement with stakeholders including government branches, traditional rulers, religious leaders, business leaders, and community groups to ensure broad support and integration of the project’s objectives.
These strategic partnerships aim to foster a foundation of peace that aligns with local and societal norms.
In addition to stakeholder engagement, the initiative will feature public dialogues and community engagement sessions across Kwara State to promote open communication and understanding.
Educational institutions and community centers will host events focusing on peacebuilding and civic responsibilities.
“We are committed to creating a dialogic environment where the community can actively participate in addressing and mitigating conflicts,” Afolabi stated.
He expressed confidence that these efforts would contribute significantly to a peaceful, unified, and inclusive society in Kwara State.
The Human Light Humanitarian Foundation remains optimistic about the project’s impact and the shared commitment of its partners. Afolabi concluded,
“By the end of this project, we aim to have laid the groundwork for Kwara State to become a model of peaceful coexistence and civic engagement.”
