Clerics urge regional govts to promote dialogue

Civil society and religious leaders in the region are calling on governments to promote a culture of dialogue and tolerance to prevent conflict and enhance peace in the region.In a statement released at the end of a three-day conference in Bujumbura, Burundi, the group appealed to political leaders to ensure politics of inclusiveness for conflict prevention, management and resolution.Archbishop Dr. Onesphore Rwaje of Rwanda, one of the hailed religious leaders for playing a role in the region’s peace. “I feel encouraged to see all stakeholders engaging in peace building,” he said.The meeting tasked clerics and faith-based organisations to propagate the culture of dialogue and tolerance for conflict prevention.Participants also resolved to establish a network of all security and peace actors, including women, youth, persons with disabilities, political parties and faith-based organisations.“The East African Community (EAC) should embark on inclusive legal and institutional reforms to achieve people-centeredness,”the statement reads.Charles Njoroge, the EAC deputy secretary general in charge of political federation, said the resolutions will be considered by the bloc.The meeting drew over 100 experts, including members of the civil society, religious leaders and politicians.

National

Clerics urge regional govts to promote dialogue