Young people continue to play a vital role in shaping peaceful, resilient, and prosperous societies. Through leadership, advocacy, and community engagement, youth-driven initiatives are increasingly emerging as powerful platforms for promoting dialogue, social cohesion, and sustainable peace in regions affected by conflict and insecurity.
Demonstrating the transformative power of youth leadership, Peace Ambassador Mr. Cosmas Pchumba, a 23-year-old fourth-year student at Kabianga University from West Pokot County, paid a courtesy visit to the Chemolingot Multi-Agency Command Centre (MACC) during his ongoing peace walk across Baringo, Elgeyo Marakwet, and West Pokot counties.
The peace campaign seeks to champion unity, social cohesion, and harmonious coexistence among communities that have experienced the effects of insecurity and banditry. Upon arrival at the Command Centre, Mr. Pchumba was received by KDF officers at Chemolingot who commended him for undertaking a courageous and inspiring initiative aimed at fostering peaceful coexistence among communities.
They praised the young peace ambassador’s commitment and determination, noting that grassroots efforts led by young people can significantly contribute to building trust, strengthening community relations, and advancing long-term stability. They further assured Mr. Pchumba of the continued support of security agencies as he proceeds with his mission.
Addressing those present, Mr. Pchumba expressed appreciation for the encouragement and goodwill he has received from residents, community leaders, and security personnel throughout his journey. He explained that the peace walk was motivated by the devastating consequences of insecurity and inter-community conflicts, which have led to loss of life, displacement of families, disruption of education, and slowed socio-economic development in affected areas.
He emphasized that the initiative seeks to empower young people to become agents of positive change by embracing dialogue, understanding, and collective responsibility in addressing community challenges. According to Mr. Pchumba, sustainable peace and development can only be achieved when young people actively participate in initiatives that promote stability, reconciliation, and shared prosperity.
The journey, which began on 10 June 2026 in Makutano, has traversed several communities including Ortum, Lomut, Chesegon, Tot, Koloa, and Chemolingot. Upon reaching Chemolingot, Mr. Pchumba received a warm welcome from residents before proceeding to the Multi-Agency Command Centre. The next phase of the campaign will take him through Marigat, Kabarnet, and Iten before concluding in Eldoret.
Throughout the walk, the Peace Ambassador has engaged numerous young people, encouraging them to reject violence and embrace peaceful methods of resolving disputes. He highlighted the long-term impact of conflict on development, noting that insecurity discourages investment, limits opportunities, and undermines the well-being of future generations. He urged communities to safeguard peace as a foundation for economic growth, education, and improved livelihoods.
In recognition of his dedication to peacebuilding, Mr. Pchumba accepted an invitation to serve as a Peace Ambassador during this year’s Sports for Peace Tournament. The role will provide him with an additional platform to amplify his message of unity, dialogue, and social cohesion among young people and communities across the region.
His visit to the Chemolingot Multi-Agency Command Centre underscored the growing importance of youth-led peace initiatives in complementing broader efforts to promote stability and development. As he continues his journey, Mr. Pchumba remains a powerful example of how determination, civic responsibility, and community engagement can inspire positive change and help build a more peaceful and prosperous future for all.
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