“The Next G8N Peace Makers” by Philip Kakungulu

In 2018, co-facilitating conflict transformation trainings in West Africa and Nairobi with Revs. Dan and Sharon Buttry ignited a vision for a Pan African Peace Network. Hosted by Tearfund, these trainings united peace warriors from Uganda, Nigeria, South Sudan, and beyond, reducing degrees of separation among Africa’s peacemakers (Buttry, 2015). David Couzens’s metaphor of a storm-torn oak tree, still blossoming, reflects Africa’s resilience amid conflict (Isaiah 61:3-4).

The Nairobi training, with its experiential tools like Social Identity (Sisay, 2018), empowered trainees to adapt peacebuilding to their contexts. Despite personal challenges—my sons’ medical emergencies—I shared a devotion from Matthew 2:11, urging us to bring our talents, aspirations, and fears to Jesus for transformation. The “Peace Tree” planting, inspired by Lance Muteyo, symbolizes our commitment to environmental and communal Shalom (Mbiti, 1990).

This network, connecting peace warriors like Ken Seidu and Harriet Baka, is Africa’s next generation of peacemakers, waging peace like war (Katongole, 2011). As Desmond Tutu said, peace is our responsibility—Amani Yetu Juku Muletu.

Call to Action: Join the Pan African Peace Network to train the next generation of peace warriors. Plant a Peace Tree to symbolize Shalom in your community.

Buttry, D. (2015). Christian Peacemaking: From Heritage to Hope. Judson Press.

Holy Bible, New International Version. (2011). Isaiah 61:3-4, Matthew 2:11.

Katongole, E. (2011). The Sacrifice of Africa: A Political Theology for Africa. Eerdmans.

Mbiti, J. S. (1990). African Religions and Philosophy. Heinemann.

Sisay, A. (2018). Social Identity Tool. [www.ccl.org].