Ethiopia observes 2024 Int’l Day of Peace
ADDIS ABABA – Encouraging dialogues is pivotal in the efforts to cultivate a culture of peace and address women’s and youth issues, the Ministry of Peace (MoP) said.
MoP Chief Peace Building Executive Officer Awoke Atniafu (PhD) made the above remark yesterday while commemorating the International Day of Peace held under the theme: “Cultivating a Culture of Peace”.
Speaking at the occasion, Awoke highlighted that fostering inclusive dialogues and empowering women and youth are viable tools to ensure sustainable peace and national development.
He also underscored that the country has been going extra miles by crafting various peace mechanisms to bring about a well-articulated culture of peace.
Having said peace and development are intertwined, Awoke emphasized that the National Dialogue has been addressing the communities’ grass root pressing issues thereby supporting the people to lead their life.
Moreover, the government has given due emphasis to address the challenges of women and youth through various initiatives, he added.
Emphasizing the need to strengthen collaborative efforts towards promoting the youth and women in the culture of peace, Awoke noted that they are key players in peace related initiatives which help accelerate a nation’s socio economic development.
On behalf of the UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator, UNDP Resident Representative Samuel G. Doe (PhD) said that Ethiopia is on the right path which is not just a goal but it is the ongoing commitment toward lasting and comprehensive peace to cultivating a culture that embodies justice, equality, and hope.
During these challenging times, he said it is highly needed to emphasize that peace is not merely the absence of conflict; it is a dynamic process that requires effort, commitment, and resilience.
Moreover, the country is embarking on this path to guarantee its vision of unity and prosperity through the National Dialogue that would be a testament to its dedication to peace through mutual understanding.
“The National Dialogue also serves as a beacon for dialogue, promoting understanding amidst differences, resolving conflicts, and celebrating the rich tapestry of its diverse society,” he remarked.
He said: “It is essential to emphasize that dialogue is not a sign of weakness or a tool for pacification; rather, it is a powerful instrument for discovering our true selves and galvanizing a shared national vision.”
Similarly, he emphasized that it is also undertaking transitional justice, which is critical for reconciliation and helps confront the past, heal wounds, and rebuild trust among the communities. Besides, it reinforces the rule of law, ensuring everyone’s justified beneficiary.
Reaffirming the United Nation’s commitment to standing with Ethiopia in its effort for comprehensive and durable peace and sustainable development, the representative said cultivating the culture of peace transcends challenges and leads to a justified and prosperous future.
BY ASHENAFI ANIMUT
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD SATURDAY 21 SEPTEMBER 2024
