Caravan of peace

When many young people in Tana River County wake up each morning, opportunity is hard to find. With unemployment at around 12.6% more than double the national average idleness and negative influences loom large. For some, the risk of falling into conflict or harmful groups is real.

Yet across villages like Garsen, Idsowe, and Tarasaa, a different story is emerging. Music, drama, and dialogue are giving youth a stage, a voice, and a choice: to take action, not remain idle.

Turning Beats into Change

The Amani Center CBO “Peace Caravan”, supported by the Global Community Engagement and Resilience Fund (GCERF) through ACT! (Act Change Transform), visited these villages to bring messages of peace and responsibility. Youth and local artists trained at Basket of Hope performed plays and songs that entertained, inspired, and built community trust.

“We are focusing on young people because they are the most affected by unemployment, but they can also lead change in their communities,” said a representative from Amani Center CBO.

From Witnesses to Ambassadors

The impact was tangible. In Tarasaa, Sub-Chief Francis Buya issued a direct challenge to the gathered crowd: “Do not weaken yourselves by staying idle. Be ambassadors of peace.”

The numbers tell a story of rapid growth:

• Weekly legal clinics established via Vox Radio by Lawyer Hajila Yaro to ensure the momentum continues long after the caravan moves on.

• 1,000+ community members reached.

• 10 local artists certified as Peace Ambassadors.

Beyond Words: Action

The Peace Caravan has shown that information alone is not enough. Youth need to see themselves in the message, understand their role, and feel empowered. Participatory activities like songs, drama, and discussions transform abstract ideas about peace into concrete actions: conflict prevention, responsible behavior, and community engagement.

“I’ve learned how to protect myself and my friends from bad influences,” said Mr. Manoti, also known as Papa Bisengo, reflecting on the impact on individual lives.

Overcoming Challenges Together

Heavy rains, muddy roads, and remote locations did not stop the organizers. By working closely with local leaders, they ensured the program reached even the most isolated communities. Music and drama proved particularly effective in connecting with youth where traditional methods often fail.

The Road Ahead

The initiative demonstrates that, even in challenging circumstances, Tana River youth are taking the lead in building peaceful communities. Stakeholders are calling for continued support, including more partnerships with Amani Center CBO and the use of platforms like Vox Radio, to scale the work and reach more young people.

In the Tana River youth are proving that peace is not just a message, it is a movement, led by those who need it most.