From December 19th to 21st, 2024, ASFIT successfully hosted the 4th edition of the Ghana Peace Camp in Walewale under the banner “Transforming Conflicts, Youth as Peacebuilders.” This three-day gathering brought together 26 passionate young people from across Ghana, creating a vibrant and safe space for reflection, skills-building, and dialogue on peace and community development.
Day 1 set the tone for the entire camp with deep, foundational learning. Participants were introduced to critical concepts around peace, conflict, and security. Sessions explored the difference between conflict resolution and conflict transformation, offering practical insights into how young people can respond to conflict in constructive ways. Participants also delved into the Youth, Peace and Security agenda, recognizing their pivotal role in preventing violence and promoting sustainable peace. The day fostered awareness, curiosity, and confidence in youth as active peacebuilders.
Day 2 built on this momentum by focusing on inner transformation and broader systemic understanding. Participants explored the 12 Habits of a Reconciler (developed by the Rose Castle Foundation), linking personal behaviour to community peacebuilding. Topics like Climate, Peace, and Security, and the Peace Leadership Model helped participants see the interconnectedness of local-global issues. An interesting conversation on the role of religion in peacebuilding brought interfaith and intercultural understanding to the fore, reinforcing respect for diversity.
Day 3 concluded the camp on a meaningful note. The focus was on Preventing Violent Extremism (PVE) and unpacking the stages of radicalization. Youth interacted with traditional and religious leaders, drawing from their lived wisdom and spiritual traditions to explore theological perspectives on peace. The day ended with moving reflections, certificate presentations, and a renewed sense of responsibility among participants to carry the peace torch back to their communities.
Over the three days, the Ghana Peace Camp 2024 became more than an event. It was a journey of transformation, solidarity, and empowerment. Participants left not only with new skills and perspectives but also with strong friendships, shared visions, and action plans to address conflict through dialogue, empathy, and leadership.
ASFIT is grateful to our partners, including Brave Aurora, Equal Access International (Australia), Kofi Annan Foundation, and Northern Innovation Lab, for their commitment to nurturing youth-led peacebuilding in Ghana. We also thank the young changemakers who participated in this year’s camp. Your passion and potential are the future of peace in our communities.
Together, we are transforming conflicts and building a more peaceful and prosperous world for everyone. 🕊️
