Envoys from East African countries have urged young people to champion peace and reject political manipulation, warning that violence and instability continue to undermine development and regional integration across the region.
Speaking at Zetech University during a cross-border cycling event, the leaders said the youth remain central to building peaceful societies and must resist being used to incite chaos, particularly during political seasons.
The envoys warned that conflicts in one country often spill over into neighbouring states, disrupting economies and social stability. Emmanuel Kachoul, Chairman of the South Sudan Business Community, said instability in the region has affected trade, education and livelihoods far beyond national boundaries.
“When your neighbour is at war, you cannot enjoy your peace,” Kachoul said, adding that prolonged conflicts have forced skilled professionals to flee war-torn countries in search of safety, leaving affected nations without the human capital needed to rebuild institutions and drive growth.
The leaders praised Kenya for its role in promoting peace and dialogue among its neighbours, describing the country as a key stabilizing force in East Africa and a hub for reconciliation and diplomatic engagement.
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“There is no good war. War creates many problems and stalls development,” Kachwol said, urging political leaders to resolve their differences peacefully and leave legacies rooted in unity and Pan-African values rather than division.
South Sudan’s Minister for East African Community Affairs, Gen Pieng Deng Kuol encouraged young people to take up leadership roles and actively shape the future of the region. He said strong, values-driven youth leadership is essential if East Africa is to emerge as a political and economic powerhouse.
Ethiopian Ambassador to Kenya Demeke Atnafu Ambula underscored the importance of regional cooperation, saying strong collaboration among East African countries has helped accelerate development. He noted that Kenya and Ethiopia continue to enjoy cordial relations and a peaceful border, which has supported the achievement of shared development goals.
Zetech University Director Corporate Affairs and Marketing John Mwai said youth from Kenya, Rwanda, Uganda, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Ethiopia and South Sudan participated in the event which offered them insights into the human cost of conflict.
Mwai said young people have a critical role in safeguarding peace, especially during election periods, and should participate in civic processes responsibly without resorting to violence.
“The cycling event was designed to go beyond competition by using sport as a tool for social change, encouraging unity, networking and collective advocacy for peace. The university remains committed to nurturing responsible youth leadership and using sports and education to foster regional integration and harmony,” Mwai said.
Mwai added, “Through sports, dialogue and youth leadership, the event reaffirms our commitment to ethics, regional cohesion, peace-building and talent nurturing across East Africa and beyond.”
By John Kamau
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