East African University Rwanda Celebrates Youth Peacebuilders in “The Big Prize of Peace” Inauguration

By Elias HAKIZIMANA.

The East African University Rwanda hosted the inauguration of winners for the project “The Big Prize of Peace in Rwanda,” organized by the Pan-African Organization for Peace and Conflicts Resolution (OPPRC) in conjunction with seven universities across Kigali.

The event celebrated youth from five East African countries studying in Rwanda who gathered to showcase their potential in peacebuilding and conflict resolution across the continent.

In his opening remarks, Prof. Callixte Kabera, Vice-Chancellor of East African University Rwanda, emphasized the significance of youth empowerment as a driving force for change in Africa.

“Today, this is not just a competition, but a demonstration of African youth’s ability to build peace and resolve conflicts, shaping the future of a prosperous Africa,” Kabera stated.

He further highlighted the role of education in transforming communities and fostering tolerance. “The youth are the cornerstone of the development we all envision in Africa,” he added.

Kabera encouraged the participants to seize this platform to tackle pressing issues such as conflicts, terrorism, and climate change, while urging them to collaborate with governments, NGOs, and universities to forge a sustainable future.

“Your solutions today will contribute to Africa’s broader vision of peace,” he told the audience.

Naeem Ullah Khan, High Commissioner-designate of Pakistan to Rwanda, lauded Rwanda’s journey from post-genocide recovery to becoming a model of peace and development.

He attributed Rwanda’s success to good governance and the involvement of youth in nation-building efforts.

“Rwanda’s history has not only inspired Pakistan but the entire African continent,” Khan remarked. “Good leadership, like that of President Paul Kagame, produces critical thinkers and creative leaders who build peace and prosperity.” He added.

Khan also emphasized the connection between peace and development, stating, “There can be no prosperity without peace, and without peace, development is unachievable.”

Championing Youth-Led Peacebuilding

Dr. Abdoulaye Fallati, President of OPPRC, reiterated the importance of youth in Africa’s peacebuilding efforts. He described Rwanda as a role model for sustainable peace and called on the youth to build on this legacy.

“You have to start from your own peace to build collective peace,” Fallati said.

He urged the young leaders to be innovative and proactive, following in the footsteps of President Kagame, whom he hailed as a role model for Africa.

Fallati concluded with a call to action, encouraging the youth to work together for the future of the continent.

“Let’s stay together, build prosperity, and think deeply about Africa’s challenges and solutions.” He said.

Voices of the Winners

Ezekiel Nzuki, a Theology student from the Adventist University of Central Africa (AUCA) and winner of the competition, expressed his excitement and optimism.

Nzuki’s project, “Rwanda’s Growth: The Power of Making Progress,” focuses on how other African nations can emulate Rwanda’s path to peace.

“My goal is to travel across Africa promoting peace and conflict resolution among the youth,” Nzuki explained.

Another winner, Fred Junior Mugisha from Mount Kenya University, shared insights on his project, “Scramble Africa,” which highlights the impact of colonialism on Africa’s division.

“We aim to educate young Africans on the importance of peace and how to invest efforts into developing their homeland instead of migrating elsewhere,” Mugisha said.

As the winners embark on their peace-building journey, the event showcased the pivotal role African youth play in shaping the continent’s future through peace, education, and collaboration.

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