ACCORD in partnership with the African Union Youth Ambassador for Peace (Eastern African Region), conducted a Peacebuilding and Conflict Prevention Training from 25–27 July 2025 in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
The training brought together young peacebuilders from across Eastern Africa, working both individually and collectively to promote peace in their communities through conflict resolution mechanisms. The programme aimed to harness the potential of selected youth as agents of peace, equipping them with the knowledge, skills, and tools needed for effective participation in conflict prevention efforts.
The practical training introduced participants to the Principled Negotiations framework, providing a shared foundation for analysis and mediation. Sessions covered core peacebuilding concepts, conflict analysis, mediation, and youth engagement strategies. Case studies, simulation exercises, and participatory activities enabled participants to apply their learning in realistic scenarios. Furthermore, it allowed participants to explore the root causes of conflict and understand how conflict mapping can offer deeper insights into underlying issues, key actors, their relationships, and existing tensions.
A briefing by representatives of the African Union introduced participants to the structures and mandates of the AU’s Political Affairs, Peace and Security (PAPS) Department, deepening their understanding of the role of the AU’s Youth Ambassador for Peace in the Eastern Africa Region.
Following the briefing, the African Union Youth Ambassador for Peace (Eastern Africa), Nashiba Nakabira, facilitated a session on actionable next steps, prompting participants to outline commitments for advancing peacebuilding in their contexts.
The training concluded with reflections on how each session—from role plays to conflict mapping—interconnected to strengthen participants’ capacity as peacebuilders. Participants expressed appreciation for the programme’s hands-on approach.
This initiative enhanced the capacity of young peacebuilders and strengthened their ability to participate meaningfully in peacebuilding frameworks. Furthermore, it enabled young peacebuilders across the region to connect and maximize the outcome of their efforts by equipping them with the tools and skills required to respond to complex conflicts in the region.
