HWPL’s 11th Annual Commemoration of the Declaration of World Peace and Peace Walk

Communication for Global Citizenship of Reconciliation and Tolerance

The ongoing and new sparks of conflicts and violence worldwide have gravely impacted human rights, necessitating urgent action to institutionalize peace. This event will commemorate HWPL’s and its partners’ commitment to peace, and bring more attention and support for peace locally and internationally from various stakeholders. In alignment with the African Union and its “Silencing the Guns” initiative, HWPL is partnering with the AU Mission in DC through this peace walk to promote unity and solidarity, while engaging not only government officials, but also the diverse African diaspora, to encourage greater communication and participation in efforts that address root causes of conflict in Africa.

Therefore, the Ambassador of the African Union Mission to the US, H.E. Hilda Suka-Mafudze, will deliver keynote remarks to begin the peace walk. It will also feature distinguished guests from the U.S. and DC governments, Embassies, local diaspora groups, and civil society leaders. Various speakers representing these different stakeholders will give presentations addressing Peace and Security locally and internationally, and the international impact of insecurity no matter where it lies.

HWPL hopes that this year’s commemoration can be not just an event, but a lasting demonstration of the collective will and leaders’ determination for peace. We hope this will be a platform to gain more attention and support for areas of insecurity and conflict, from the local and international community in Washington, DC. HWPL aims to raise awareness about the critical human rights challenges and emphasize the importance of disarmament, peace process efforts, and institutional peace for achieving sustainable development. By engaging civil society and global citizens, we seek to foster a greater urgency and collective commitment to address these issues and urge active participation in peacebuilding initiatives.

Recognizing the need for greater collective communication, HWPL, as a specialized international NGO in peace, intends to utilize this event as a platform for diverse societal contributors to converge and share their visions for a peaceful future; for those who experienced war to teach about it so future generations can advocate for peace. Through concrete planning, stronger partnerships, and collaborations, we aim to work together as a united front, leaving a lasting legacy of peace for future generations.

In partnership with the HWPL local volunteers, many being African diaspora, and our volunteers in over 20 countries in Africa, who are working tirelessly in their respective communities and schools, and collaborating with the Pan-African Parliament and national governments for peace-building initiatives, our DC Office believes this peace walk will shine a light of hope to our family of peace across Africa. Together, let us unite as a stronger voice to advocate for peace, stability, and the protection of human rights, not only in Africa, but across the continent and beyond.