Transforming Conflict Through Youth Leadership
In the arid landscapes of Wajir County, where inter-clan conflicts over resources had persisted for generations, a remarkable transformation began in 2023. Delta Africa, through its "Supporting Youth Voices to Counter Violent Extremism in Wajir South" program, initiated an 11-month intervention that would change the conflict dynamics in the region.
The program, fully funded by Kenya NiWajibu Wetu (NIWETU) - a USAID project on building resilience in VE hotspot areas - focused on amplifying the voices of existing youth influencers from Diff and Gherille sub-counties to Counter Violent Extremism (CVE) in their communities.
Key Impact Metrics
The Media Strategy: Radio as a Peacebuilding Tool
Recognizing that radio is the most popular platform for disseminating local news across communities in Wajir, Delta Africa strategically utilized media to amplify the voices of vulnerable youth. Through interactive radio talk show programs and Public Service Announcements (PSAs), youth influencers addressed:
- Root causes of inter-clan conflicts
- Alternative dispute resolution mechanisms
- The dangers of violent extremism
- Opportunities for youth engagement in peace processes
Creating Platforms for Reconciliation
The program successfully created platforms to promote reconciliation and positive engagement between Government agencies and communities in Wajir. Monthly dialogue forums brought together:
Youth Representatives
From conflicting clans aged 18-35
Government Officials
County administration & security agencies
The Structured Dialogue Approach
Delta Africa implemented a three-phase dialogue process:
- Trust-Building Phase: Separate meetings with conflicting groups to understand grievances and build confidence in the process.
- Joint Dialogue Sessions: Facilitated discussions focusing on common interests rather than positions.
- Action Planning: Collaborative development of peace agreements with measurable commitments from all parties.
Sustainable Impact
The project's legacy extends beyond the 11-month implementation period. The youth peace committees established continue to:
- Monitor and report early warning signs of conflict
- Facilitate community dialogues during tensions
- Serve as liaisons between communities and local authorities
- Promote "The One Republic Initiative" - reducing ethnicity and instilling patriotism
"Before this program, we only saw each other as enemies from different clans. Now we work together as brothers building peace for our children's future." - Ahmed, Youth Peace Committee Member
Lessons for Replication
The Wajir Youth Dialogue Forum demonstrates that:
Youth-led mediation is more effective than external interventions
Local media can be powerful tools for peacebuilding
Structured dialogue processes yield sustainable results
This case study from Wajir County serves as a model for youth-led conflict transformation that can be replicated across other ASAL regions in Kenya facing similar challenges.