Youth Peacebuilding Plan Targets Election Violence Ahead of Polls
The plan follows the domestication of a United Nations Security Council resolution on youth, peace and security, adopted in 2015.
KARONGA, MALAWI— Malawi's new National Action Plan aims to empower youth as peace advocates during upcoming national elections, government officials said Thursday, writes Lusekero Mhango.
The 2024-2029 strategic framework positions young people as key stakeholders in preventing election-related violence, targeting communities with high conflict risks.
"In most cases, youth are used as architects or agents in instigating violence," said Ronald Edward Phiri, Deputy Director of Gender Mainstreaming.
"This document will be a benchmark in responding to violence."
The plan follows the domestication of a United Nations Security Council resolution on youth, peace and security, adopted in 2015.
It will educate young people about conflict resolution strategies, particularly as Malawi approaches its September 16th elections.
Local youth leaders welcomed the initiative.
"The plan will enable youths to contribute positively to society and advocate for their rights," said the Karonga District Youth Officer.
Implemented with support from the UN Peacebuilding Fund, the project targets conflict prevention through community-level education and youth network engagement.
Emmanuel Moyo from Pamoza Tingakwaniska Youth Organisation emphasized the plan's significance in developing community-level peace strategies ahead of the electoral period.