By Guy Feugap, Africa Organizer of World BEYOND War, February 1, 2026
The Isingiro-Nakivale chapter of World BEYOND War has organized a campfire for Peace and Meditation, bringing together community members in a shared space of reflection, dialogue, and connection with the global movement for peace. Guided by the belief that peace starts within us and extends to others, the activity aimed to nurture inner peace as a foundation for social harmony within the refugee settlement. Held under the theme “Cultivating a Culture of Peace”, the gathering aligned with the vision promoted by the United Nations, which recognizes that peace is not merely the absence of conflict, but a positive, dynamic, and participatory process where dialogue is encouraged and conflicts are resolved through mutual understanding and cooperation. Through meditation, open conversations and shared reflections around the campfire, participants explored practical ways to embody these values in their daily lives.
The event also marked the second visit to Nakivale of friends and partners from Aalborg City of Peace and Seniors Without Borders. Hosted at New Talent for the Best Future (NTBF), the visit provided an opportunity for meaningful exchanges aimed at identifying the key needs and challenges faced by refugees, while strengthening solidarity between local and international peace actors. By combining reflection, dialogue, and international solidarity, the campfire activity reinforced the Isingiro-Nakivale chapter’s commitment to building a living culture of peace that connects Nakivale to the wider world and affirms that sustainable peace begins with individuals, grows within communities, and reaches across borders.
Community-Based Healing and Peacebuilding in Nakivale
On the occasion of World Mental Health Day, the chapter coordinator of the Isingiro–Nakivale chapter of World BEYOND War took part in an exchange to highlight the importance of mental and emotional well-being in fragile and conflict-affected contexts. During the event, he presented his community-based work in the Nakivale Refugee settlement, focusing on how mental health support and conflict transformation are essential foundations for sustainable peace. Drawing from lived experience as a refugee who fled war in the Democratic Republic of Congo, the chapter coordinator shared how unresolved trauma, loss, and psychological distress often fuel tensions, mistrust, and violence within displaced communities. He emphasized that peacebuilding in Nakivale goes beyond dialogue alone and must include emotional healing, psychosocial support, and safe spaces for women and youth to process trauma. The presentation showcased ongoing initiatives in the camp, including trainings on emotional wellness, mental well-being, and nonviolent conflict resolution in collaboration with community leaders. These efforts aim to equip refugees with practical tools to cope with stress, manage conflict peacefully, and rebuild social cohesion despite difficult living conditions.
Youth Reflection and Learning
The Isingiro-Nakivale chapter coordinator also took part in the Youth-by-Youth Platform, a space dedicated to youth-led reflection and learning. The session focused on the theme “How can we decolonize the curriculum by centering indigenous languages in Africa?” It provided an important opportunity to exchange ideas on education, identity, and cultural justice. Participants highlighted the need to reclaim indigenous knowledge systems and languages as foundations for inclusive and emancipatory education. The experience was described as both enriching and inspiring. It reinforced the belief that young people are central actors in shaping education systems that promote dignity, peace, and social transformation.
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