(Nairobi, Kenya | 23rd June, 2025) – The Women, Youth, Peace and Security Institute (WYPSI) of the KAIPTC, in collaboration with the National Youth Council of Kenya (NYC), has officially launched the Youth in Leadership and Peacebuilding Course in Nairobi, Kenya.
Running from 23rd to 27th June 2025, the training brings together 35 youth participants from Nairobi, various counties in Kenya, and Uganda—underscoring a strong commitment to regional integration and inclusive youth participation in peace and security.
The official launch was presided over by the Principal Secretary (PS) for Youth Affairs, Mr. Jacobs Fikirini, who reaffirmed the Government of Kenya’s commitment to strengthening youth involvement in peacebuilding processes.
“This course aligns with our broader national efforts to develop Kenya’s first National Action Plan on Youth, Peace and Security, in line with UN Security Council Resolution 2250,” said the PS.
“As a Ministry, we remain committed to providing institutional support to the National Youth Council and fostering an enabling environment where our youth can take up their rightful place in peace and governance efforts, locally and regionally.”
The PS also acknowledged the presence of technical representatives from the State Department for Internal Security and National Administration and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)—institutions that have been instrumental in advancing youth-centred peacebuilding frameworks in Kenya and beyond.
Representing the NYC, Ms. Gloria Wawira, Acting CEO, welcomed participants and partners, reiterating the Council’s commitment to meaningful youth engagement.
“The National Youth Council is honoured to host this important training. Young people must be seen and empowered as co-creators of peace, not merely recipients of it. This collaboration reflects our long-standing belief that regional partnerships are essential in building youth capacity and cohesion,” she noted.
In her remarks, Mrs. Sylvia Horname Noagbesenu, Acting Director of WYPSI and Representative of the Commandant of KAIPTC, highlighted the value of cross-border youth training.
“This course represents a deliberate effort to strengthen youth networks, knowledge, and leadership in peacebuilding across Africa. We commend the National Youth Council for its foresight, and the Government of Kenya for its support,” she said.
Funded by the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency, the training will cover key areas such as leadership, conflict resolution, policy advocacy, mediation, and civic responsibility. Designed to be both participatory and practical, the course also symbolizes a broader shift toward youth-led transformation across Africa.
With over 75% of Africa’s population under the age of 35, this initiative offers a strategic response to youth exclusion—equipping participants with tools and networks to foster resilient and peaceful communities.
The training will culminate in a certificate award ceremony on Friday, 27th June 2025.
