The Ebenezer Community Development (ECOD) Organization recently hosted a session with faith leaders, teachers, and local leaders at Kanthete Primary School to promote climate justice, human rights, and peace building efforts.
The event provided faith leaders with an opportunity to discuss their roles in creating a sustainable and harmonious community.
Participants from diverse religious backgrounds highlighted the connections between climate change, education, and human rights.
A group photo taken after the training
ECOD stressed that environmental challenges also affect vulnerable communities’ rights.
“Faith leaders have the unique ability to advocate for sustainability while upholding human dignity,” Thenda emphasized.
The discussion focused on faith leaders’ responsibility to educate their communities about climate action and environmental degradation.
The conversation also addressed the important role of faith-based organizations in ensuring marginalized voices are included in climate justice efforts.
Faith-based institutions significantly influence community attitudes toward learning, especially regarding climate change and human rights. Faith leaders can equip future generations with essential knowledge.
Faith leaders captured during an interface meeting
ECOD highlighted that faith communities, despite their diversity, have the power to unite people for common causes without violence.
Faith leaders were encouraged to promote dialogue and cooperation, fostering mutual respect and understanding among different religious and cultural groups.
“Faith leaders must guide followers toward peaceful coexistence, contributing to a broader vision of harmony and justice,” Thenda added.
Reverend Jeremiah Nkhata from Last Church shared how the session helped him understand peacebuilding and inspired him to advocate for peace in his church.
“I did not know that churches can come together discussing about peace. This has given me an opportunity as a leader for Last Church to advocate for peace in my church,” Nkhata said.
Group Village headman Gowamo emphasized that peacebuilding is essential for community development.