Beyond safeguarding the nation and protecting its people, the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) continues to contribute to building peaceful, resilient and cohesive communities. Through sustained engagement with young people and local communities, KDF supports initiatives that nurture responsible citizenship, mutual respect and a culture of peaceful coexistence.
On Monday, 21 September 2026, KDF, in partnership with the Eastern Africa Standby Force (EASF) Secretariat Peace Operations Department, joined students from Lang’ata Barracks Primary and Secondary Schools to commemorate the International Day of Peace.
The celebration brought the United Nations theme, “Invest in Peace: For Everyone, Everywhere, Every Day,” closer to the students through the local theme, “Peace Through Young Eyes: Investing in Peace, Every Day.” The theme placed young people at the centre of peacebuilding, underscoring the role they can play in promoting tolerance, dialogue and harmony within their schools, families and communities.
EASF Director Brigadier General Ronald Rwivanga, accompanied by an EASF delegation, Ulinzi Sports Complex Director Brigadier Alfred Olenauwankas and members of the school faculty, joined students in a procession from the school grounds to the Ulinzi Sports Complex Indoor Arena. Led by the Kenya Army Band, the procession provided a colourful opening to a day dedicated to promoting peace and unity.
Addressing the students, Brigadier General Rwivanga emphasised that peace is not confined to the absence of war or the responsibility of soldiers and governments. Rather, it begins with the choices individuals make every day in their homes, classrooms, playgrounds and communities.
He encouraged the students to recognise simple acts such as listening to others, respecting differences, caring for the environment and resolving disagreements constructively as important building blocks of lasting peace. He further urged them to embrace cooperation and recognise their individual and collective responsibility in creating peaceful environments wherever they live, learn and interact.
The Principal of Lang’ata Barracks Secondary School, Ms Florence Muungania, expressed appreciation for the partnership, noting that instilling the values of peace among young people equips them to become ambassadors of harmony, tolerance and mutual understanding within their communities.
Students brought the message of peace to life through creative skits, choir performances, poetry, modern and traditional dances, and spoken-word presentations. Their performances explored themes of unity, respect, dialogue and peaceful coexistence, demonstrating how young people can use creativity and expression to advance positive social values.
The commemoration reinforced the message that lasting peace is built through everyday choices and shared responsibility. By engaging young people early and giving them a voice in conversations about peace, such initiatives help plant the values of tolerance, empathy and cooperation that can grow into stronger and more cohesive communities.
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