Centre for Social Concern (CFSC) Committed to Promote Peace and Tolerance in Lilongwe
The Centre for Social Concern (CFSC) has pledged to promote peace and tolerance among the people of Lilongwe and the entire country, writes Judgement Katika.
LILONGWE, Malawi - The Centre for Social Concern (CFSC) has pledged to promote peace and tolerance among the people of Lilongwe and the entire country, writes Judgement Katika.
This commitment was announced during an interactive meeting held in Lilongwe on Thursday, which brought together religious leaders, traditional leaders, youths, and law enforcers.
Tobias Jere, a programme officer at CFSC, stated that the meeting aimed to foster an environment of peace and tolerance in Lilongwe district.
He emphasised that while there is currently peace, it is important to recognise that peace is more than just the absence of war.
"We are exploring and examining the structures that contribute to true peace and tolerance. As a faith-based organisation, we believe that religious groups, along with the collaboration of traditional leaders, can find a way forward in promoting peace and addressing the issues that hinder tolerance in this district," Jere explained.
He further mentioned that CFSC has agreed with the majority of youths in the country that they should not be manipulated by political leaders who only appear during elections.
The organisation aims to empower the youth and discourage their exploitation for political gains, particularly as the country approaches the 2025 elections.
Christopher Mwase, one of the block leaders in the district, shared that they discussed issues that disrupt peace and hinder the protection of communities.
He highlighted the challenges faced by the youth, including alcohol and substance abuse, which negatively impact their future.
Furthermore, CFSC addressed the issue of divorce, as many people in the district were getting married without following proper procedures.
Mwase expressed that the organisation has found appropriate solutions to tackle this problem.
Representing the Muslim community, Sheikh Mussa Chisonga remarked that the lack of peace and tolerance in the country stems from leaders' failure to address these issues within their communities.
The peace and tolerance interface meeting successfully brought together traditional leaders, law enforcers, religious leaders, and youths to collectively work towards fostering a peaceful and tolerant society.