Lokiriama – 19th October 2024 (Public Communications and Media Relations)
Youth from Kainuk in Aroo Sub-County captivated the audience at the 51st Lokiriama Peace Accord commemoration with a powerful drama performance focused on peacebuilding.
The innovative performance, a departure from traditional songs and dances, highlighted the crucial role of area chiefs in de-escalating conflicts. It was met with a standing ovation and widespread applause.
Founding group member Mike Emanikor expressed hope that the performance would inspire others to embrace drama as a tool for peace. The group was sponsored by the Danish Refugee Council (DRC), a leading peacebuilding organization in the region.
DRC’s Peacebuilding Officer, John Ekutan, praised the effectiveness of drama in conveying peace messages. “Drama has vividly shown the consequences of conflict and the importance of peace,” he said.
The youth were accompanied by elders and members of the Mosol Location peace committee from Pokot Central. Kainuk Senior Chief Sarah Lochodo attributed the group’s resurgence to support from DRC and the Free Pentecostal Fellowship of Kenya (FPFK).
Lochodo highlighted the group’s previous success in using drama to convey peace messages at the grassroots level. “I encourage our youth to continue using their acting skills to create positive change,” she urged.
The Lokiriama Peace Accord, commemorated annually, stands as a monument to the 1973 agreement between the Turkana and Matheniko communities to end hostilities. The peace accord has paved the way for peace not only between the two communities but also serves as a model for resolving other intra and inter-community conflicts.
The Kainuk youth group, formed in the early 2000s, has long used creative arts to promote peace among rival communities. Despite periods of inactivity, they have remained a symbol of resilience and the potential of young people to drive social change.
An audience member remarked, “This performance brought our struggles to life. It reminded us that peace is an ongoing process that we must all work to maintain.”
Beyond drama, local youth are increasingly involved in peace dialogues, mediation workshops, and reconciliation events. The Kainuk youth group plans to collaborate with schools and local authorities to expand their peace drama performances and ensure the next generation understands the importance of dialogue and unity.
