On December 30, 2007, President Mwai Kibaki was declared the winner of Kenyas presidential election. Within minutes of this declaration, rioting erupted across Kenya, from the coast of the Indian Ocean to the banks of Lake Victoria. These riots lasted two months, claiming the lives of nearly 1500 Kenyans, and leaving more than half a million internally displaced. Hostility to this extent, not seen in Kenyas modern history, illustrated the divisive nature of Kenyas tribalism, and left an entire generation questioning whether Kenya would once again become one of Africas most peaceful nations. Realizing the role they had in ensuring a peaceful future, Kenyas youths, who comprise a majority of the population, began to lead, and grassroots organizations soon began to materialize throughout Kenyas countryside.
This book details the efforts made by one such group of Kenyan youths who, together with a young Canadian, came together with the goal of helping to build a sustainable peace in Kenya. It details the background to Kenyas 2008 post-election violence, the early efforts leading to the formation of the Youth Ambassadors for Peace, and steps taken to engage both the potential and ability of those who wish to help. Through youth empowerment and the belief that diversity creates strength, these Kenyans demonstrate the power of a small group of thoughtful and dedicated individuals, united by their desire to find peace before Kenyas next elections are held in March 2013.
About the author
Adam Hummel is a lawyer who lives in Toronto, Canada. He has a Bachelor of Arts degree in history and political science from York University, and a law degree from the University of Windsor. His studies have focused on peace and the international elements of both politics and the law. He was born in Johannesburg, South Africa but moved to Toronto as a child, where he grew up.
In May 2009 Hummel helped found the Youth Ambassadors for Peace, in Kenya’s Rift Valley Province. It is a grassroots peacebuilding organization comprised of youths from Kenya’s Kisii, Luo, Kalenjin, Maasai and Luhya communities. They facilitate soccer tournaments, school peace clubs, drama performances, and run a youth centre. Hummel has been to Kenya numerous times, and continues to help design projects that contribute to a culture of peace. All proceeds from the sale of this book will be donated to the peace project.
Visit www.kenyapeaceproject.com for more information.
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