A forum focus on the need arm youth with skills to solve problems, to think from a global perspective, and to become moral and innovative leaders was held in Arusha city.

Youth from various parts in of the country have been equipped with skills to enhance effective leadership and promote peaceful coexistence within society. The group gathered in Arusha for a forum focused on faith-driven leadership and active citizenship involve participants representing regions such as Dodoma, Mtwara, Coast, Tabora, Manyara, Kilimanjaro, Lindi, Kigoma, Arusha regions and Pemba in Zanzibar. 

The two-day training, organised by Norwegian Church Aid (NCA) in partnership with the Interfaith Standing Committee on Economic Justice and Integrity of Creation (ISCEJIC), was held under the theme: “Peace and Peacebuilding Process: Towards Definition, Understanding, and Solutions for Conflict in Tanzania and Africa. 

During the event, ISCEJIC cochair Sheikh Mataka shared his theological reflections on faithbased approaches to combating violence. He emphasised the importance of integrity, stating that it is a key factor in ensuring justice and peace. “Integrity is not optional; every member of society must embrace it.

 Without integrity, injustice and corruption will prevail,” Sheikh Mataka said. He further explained that Islam encourages justice even towards those we dislike, quoting the Qur’an: “Islam teaches that your hatred for someone should not prevent you from treating them justly,” Sheikh Mataka also highlighted the importance of respecting authority and obeying laws, as long as they do not contradict religious principles. 

He urged the youth to avoid discrimination, learn to offer constructive criticism, and take charge of their future. “Use wisdom and kind words when offering advice or criticism. This will lead to positive results if you remain firm and committed,” he added. In his opening remarks, Dr Fredrick Shoo, Chairman of the Christian Council of Tanzania (CCT), challenged the youth to take responsibility for the nation’s future. 

He stressed that there is no future without active youth participation. Dr Shoo cited historical examples, including the late Julius Nyerere, who began his fight for independence while still in secondary school. “We also learn from the holy books about youth leaders like Joshua, Daniel, Joseph, and David, who spread religion, led their nations, won wars, and strengthened their economies,” he noted. 

He urged the youth to embrace their potential for change and work towards solving community challenges rather than becoming disillusioned. “Be courageous, responsible, and dedicated to building a better tomorrow,” Dr Shoo said. The youth who participated in the training expressed that they were empowered with new skills to become catalysts for positive change, promote justice, and peacefully resolve conflicts in their communities.

 Paul Josephat, a youth from Manyara Region, shared that due to challenges such as unemployment, many young people turn to crime. He pledged to use the knowledge gained from the training to empower his peers and inspire them to become agents of change, justice, and peace.