In South Kivu, in Uvira, 50 young girls from the three communes completed four days of intensive training in female leadership, peace, and political participation, officially launching "Wasichana na Amani."

In Uvira, 50 young girls from the city's three communes completed four days of training focused on female leadership, peace consolidation, and political engagement. Organized at the Women's House by the Circle for Exchange for Youth Development in the Great Lakes Region (CEDEJ-GL), this session officially launched the "Wasichana na Amani" project.

Funded by the United Nations Peacebuilding Fund (UNPBF) through the Kvinna till Kvinna foundation, the program aims to equip participants with skills in transformational leadership and nonviolent conflict management, while encouraging them to actively participate in political and community life.

"We want to make them true agents of change, capable of holding decision-making positions and building a more just and peaceful society," said Aline Shuni, project manager at CEDEJ-GL.

Over the four days, the young girls attended interactive workshops, personal development modules, and meetings with local women leaders. The goal: boost their confidence and prepare them to influence governance at local and national levels.

At the closing, the 50 participants made a common commitment: to join political parties, run for elected office, and become involved in the country's management to promote peace and sustainable development. They say they have discovered their capacities and their place in society.

"Politics is not the preserve of men. We want to bring the voice of young girls to the conduct of public affairs," testified Martha Kisosi, one of them.

In closing, Kifara Kapenda Kiky, deputy and interim mayor of Uvira, commended the commitment of the participants and called for greater political inclusion.

"The future of the country also rests on young girls. Their presence in politics is essential for balanced and sustainable governance," he affirmed.

Through the "Wasichana na Amani" project, CEDEJ-GL aims to train a new generation of women leaders ready to overcome sociopolitical obstacles and transform their communities. The training ended this Monday, but for these 50 young girls, it is the beginning of long-term civic commitment in the service of peace, development, and good governance.

Joéphine Mungubi