Celebrating Peace, Empowering Women, and Rekindling Hope in Mbengwi

 

In a display of solidarity and resilience, more than 400 Mbengwi community members, gathered for an unforgettable socio-cultural extravaganza organized by COWOPNET and CAGEAD, with funding from ALVF, as part of the activities of the "Community Driven Actions for the Promotion of Grassroots Women Participation in Peace Building through Awareness Raising on UNSCR1325” project. 

The celebration was a jubilant success, featuring exciting games such as ring toss, fill-the-basket, seize-the-item, egg relay races, tug-of-war, football, and handball. The lively energy was further elevated by captivating performances from dance ensembles like Tewara, Mbororo, and Oshie women dance groups, infusing the event with rhythm and joy.

Central to the event's success were the women of Mbengwi, especially members of the Efforti peace club. Empowered through knowledge and leadership from peace initiatives aligned with UNSCR 1325, they spearheaded community mobilization, fostering unity and shared purpose.

UNSCR 1325 has been a catalyst for empowering women to assume leadership roles and champion reconciliation. This jamboree vividly demonstrated the tangible impact of these efforts, showcasing how community-led initiatives can ignite hope and drive positive change.

The event not only celebrated culture and camaraderie but also symbolized a significant step toward healing and rebuilding in Mbengwi, a shining example of grassroots peacebuilding. 

 According to Emmanuela, one of the players of the Young Eagles handball team, she is very happy to be part of the jamboree because she was able to meet people she has not met for a long time because gatherings like this are scarce in the community. She also added that, she adds that through this meeting she exchanged ideas with people that will help to better the community.

 Mama Obande Frida, expressed her joy as she said, the women won the men during the tug of war game, and got the first prize and she also participated in games that she saw for the first time.

Looking ahead, the community aspires to make such gatherings a regular tradition, nurturing a culture of peace that will benefit generations to come. The success of this jamboree has sparked a renewed sense of hope, inspiring Mbengwi to continue striving for a harmonious and prosperous future.

By Emmanuela Monie