This heartfelt cry was one among many, made by the children of South Sudan at the colourful launch of the “Phase One Implementation of the USSWAK Children’s Peace Ambassador’s Project”, in Nairobi, on Saturday, 2nd May 2015.
Children, parents, friends and supporters from partnering organisations gathered at the YWCA (Young Women’s Christian Association), for this inaugural event, where forty two (42) children from South Sudan, currently residing in Kenya, were recognised by The Umbrella of South Sudan Women Association in Kenya (USSWAK), as “Peace Ambassadors” representing each of the ten (10) states of South Sudan.
As the guest of honour, Rev. Fred Nyabera , Director, End Child Poverty – Arigatou International, congratulated the children peace ambassadors and reminded them that their appointment and commissioning came with both privileges and responsibility. “From today henceforth you will be representing children from your various states, country, Africa and all the children of the world in their pursuit for peace”, he said. Quoting from the Bible (John: 15: 16-17) he pointed out that the peace ambassadors were also God’s ambassadors and that God expected them to bear lasting fruit of love.
In addition Rev. Nyabera reaffirmed the commitment of Arigatou International – End Child Poverty to accompany the peace ambassadors in developing advocacy tools, training them in advocacy skills and in their practical advocacy initiatives.
Also presiding the event was Bishop Andrew Wawa of AIC Highrise Community Church and a founder of a grassroots inter-faith initiative in Nairobi, which seeks to address peace. Bishop Andews urged the citizens of South Sudan to put aside tribalism, corruption, hatred and bloodshed and instead, choose peace. He stated, “God gave us peace, but we have shattered it and are now reaping the fruits (of our actions).” He further continued to say, “With God, it is not too late, we can have peace.”
“Peace is having a better generation for our children to enjoy” – Unity State Peace Ambassador.