In East Africa, conflicts among pastoral tribes over land and water have persisted for generations, fueling deep-seated grievances. These animosities are perpetuated by cultural practices that reinforce a sense of otherness, leading to a cycle of violence and societal fracture that has endured for centuries.
Shalom-SCCRR, a non-governmental organization established in 2009 after Kenya’s disputed elections, has been working tirelessly to combat these conflicts. Their interventions across Ethiopia, Kenya, Tanzania, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, and Uganda have exceeded 1,000, with a focus on transforming protracted conflicts into opportunities for social development and reconciliation.
The organization’s approach extends beyond merely quelling physical violence, aiming to establish a lasting positive peace that addresses the root causes of conflict. This is achieved through a sustained commitment to building local capacity for negotiation, mediation, and collaborative problem-solving, and by engaging community members to architect their own peace networks.
At the core of Shalom-SCCRR’s mission lies a commitment to reconciliation, anchored on four pillars: ending violence, pursuing truth and justice, showing mercy, and advocating for institutional development to fulfill societal needs including education and healthcare.
SCCRR’s impact is evident in the training of over 28,000 community leaders and the successful implementation of more than 600 local community development projects, uplifting the lives of over 200,000 school-aged children and countless others in the region. Notably, women have been the primary beneficiaries of SCCRR interventions, constituting 60% of the recipients.
The organization’s emphasis on local ownership and sustainability has proven crucial, with communities taking charge of projects and contributing their resources, ensuring long-term success. This community-driven approach is essential for fostering self-sustainability and resilience, particularly in the face of inter-ethnic conflicts that have caused widespread devastation in the region.
As the issue of global migration continues to challenge the world, SCCRR’s work serves as a beacon of hope, offering invaluable insights and a blueprint for tackling similar challenges elsewhere.
Rev. Dr. Patrick Devine, the International Chairman and Founder of Shalom-SCCRR, has been recognized for his exceptional contributions to peacebuilding, receiving the International Caring Award in 2013. His vision and leadership have propelled Shalom-SCCRR to the forefront of conflict resolution and reconciliation initiatives, marking a significant step forward in the journey towards sustainable peace in Africa.
