Just a week ago the OAIC worked with youth from various areas in Nairobi to maintain the peace and stand against negative aspects of tribalism in Kenya. In the past there have been many ethnic challenges between Kenyans but in order for Kenya to continue to prosper, it is important to realize the value of our differences and work together for the betterment of this country.
William Farrell (OAIC Intern) and Robert two of the main planners of the peace bench describe how it was made
After the post election violence in 2007-2008 the OAIC preached to the Kenyan people that we should maintain peace within this beautiful and diverse country. The 2013 election brought on fears of what was to potentially come bringing silence to the Nairobi streets. Finally once the results were announced the country waited to see the reaction of the people. Thankfully, Kenya maintained peace throughout the country regardless of who each voted for.
The OAIC thanks Kenyans for accepting the results as they have come and continues to work towards spreading the peace through the creation of a peace bench which stands against the negative outcomes of tribalism. We want to promote Kenya and work towards a united country.
Youth from various AIC’s came out to support this project of creating a visual symbol of peace for local communities throughout Nairobi. The goal was for the bench to be as much environmentally friendly as possible through the usage of plastic bottles and bags making the foundation of the bench.
One of the youth volunteers on this project said, ‘What I wanted was that people should come together so we can unite this country. I hate the tribalism that is the reason why I wanted to be a part of this project.’ Another youth volunteer said that, ‘ I have learned how to build a peace bench so I can now take it back to my community and help to spread the peace throughout this country.’
The dedication of the peace bench took place 20thof June last week where Ven. Gichimu (OAIC Theology department) prayed and dedicated the bench to the work of God. Reverend
Teachers and OAIC staff gather for the dedication of the peace bench
Phyllis Byrd (OAIC Just Communities) commended the youth volunteers for their hard work and perseverance throughout the process of the bench creation. The bench itself was built at the NICA Kasarani Church and initial prayers for the bench were given by the General Secretary at the NICA church. The dedication was surrounded by OAIC staff as well as teachers from the NICA primary school on the church grounds.
The OAIC is thankful for this partnership with the NICA Kasarani Church and has the goal to create more peace benches throughout local churches in Kenya to serve as a symbol of peace for Kenya.
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