Organisers of the East Africa Debate for Peace Championship changed the event dates, initially scheduled for December 2 to 4, 2025.
Through a circular notice, the Organising Committee of the East Africa Schools Debate Council (EASDC), in partnership with Smile International, moved the event forward by one month.
January 2 – 4, 2026, has been set as the new dates for the championship.
“This is to inform all participating schools, patrons, debaters, adjudicators, partners, and stakeholders that the East Africa Debate for Peace Championship 2025 – Arusha Open has been postponed,” read part of the notice.
The event will be held at the International Institute of Accountancy, Arusha, Tanzania.
The EASDC competition fosters intellectual skills, confidence and public abilities among East African Secondary School students.
The championship, organised by different debate societies throughout the region, provides a platform for debating complex global and regional issues.
The organisers said the postponement was necessitated by scheduling adjustments to ensure the safety of participants, smooth preparations, enhanced participation, and improved logistical arrangements for all teams and partners.
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Mr Martin Chamliho, the Director General of The Living Smile International, regretted that the postponement caused inconvenience to participants.
“We regret any inconvenience caused and sincerely appreciate your understanding and continued support. Further details and an updated program will be communicated in due course,” said Mr Chamliho.
The EASDC assured that, despite the recent instability in parts of the host country, international events often proceed safely even under such circumstances.
Global practice shows that countries experiencing moments of tension continue to host conferences, championships, and diplomatic gatherings in secure zones—just as Arusha remains stable, safe, and operational.
“With robust risk-assessment measures, continuous security coordination, and clear contingency planning, the East Africa Debate for Peace Championship – Arusha Open remains committed to providing a safe, supportive, and structured environment for all delegates,” assured EASDC.
They added: “In moments like these, peace-focused engagements become even more vital, reminding us that the work of dialogue, cooperation, and youth leadership must continue without interruption.”
The East Africa Schools Debate Championship (EASDC) is an annual competition for secondary school students.
The championship is a significant event for secondary school debaters in the region, with various tournaments happening throughout the year.
The championship features students from numerous East African countries, including Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia, South Sudan, and Zimbabwe.
The competitions are organised with preliminary rounds, followed by semi-finals and a grand finale.
By Victor Ngecho
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