Peace Through Young Eyes: EASF Marks International Day of Peace in Nairobi

Nairobi, Kenya - 21 September 2026 - The Eastern Africa Standby Force (EASF) has commemorated the 2026 International Day of Peace in partnership with Langata Garrison Primary and Secondary Schools, placing young people at the centre of regional peacebuilding efforts. 

The commemoration, held at the Ulinzi Sports Complex Stadium in Nairobi, was conducted under the United Nations theme, “Invest in Peace: For Everyone, Everywhere, Every Day,” and EASF’s complementary theme, “Peace Through Young Eyes: Investing in Peace, Every Day.”

Opening the event, EASF Director Brigadier General Ronald Rwivanga underscored the importance of involving young people in building peaceful and cohesive societies. He noted that peace is not only about the absence of conflict, but is also reflected in everyday actions such as respect, dialogue, inclusion, tolerance and non-violence. 

“Peace is a shared responsibility,” Brigadier General Rwivanga said, encouraging students to reject hate speech, bullying and violence while promoting respect, unity and peaceful resolution of differences. 

The Principal of Langata Garrison Secondary School welcomed the partnership with EASF and emphasized the importance of investing in education, character, tolerance, dialogue and human dignity. She described young people as active partners in peacebuilding, stressing that peace must be cultivated in schools, homes and communities. 

The celebration provided students with a platform to express their understanding of peace through creative and educational activities, including poetry, spoken word, artwork, choir performances, modern and traditional dances, and student skits highlighting the work of EASF. 

An interactive youth and peace dialogue between EASF and students provided an opportunity to discuss the role of young people in promoting peace and resolving differences peacefully. 

The programme also featured the recognition of winners of the essay and art competitions, a collective peace pledge by EASF and students, and tree planting as a practical demonstration of shared responsibility for peaceful and sustainable communities. 

The commemoration reaffirmed EASF’s commitment to engaging young people as partners in advancing peace and security across Eastern Africa.