Executive Summary
KUJENGA AMANI is a youth-led peacebuilding program aimed at transforming conflict dynamics and promoting sustainable peace in Doda Ward, Tanga Region, Tanzania. Spearheaded by AFRIWAG in collaboration with We World and 4H Tanzania, this initiative seeks to address community-based conflicts—especially those between fish farming youth and local residents—through conflict resolution training, cultural expression, media campaigns, and community dialogue. With the backing of the European Union’s NDICI Stability instrument, this program aspires to be a model for youth empowerment, grassroots conflict transformation, and social cohesion.
Background and Rationale
Tanga Region, particularly Mkinga District, has experienced growing tension among youth fish farmers and local community members due to competition over natural resources such as water, land, and communal spaces. Incidents of fish pond contamination, theft, and informal water usage have led to misunderstanding, mistrust, and economic loss.
A 2020 intervention by World Vision that supported youth fish farming in Doda ward saw promising beginnings—10,000 fish fingerlings were introduced with hopes of generating TZS 10 million. However, due to unresolved conflicts, only 200 fish were harvested, leading to devastating losses and worsened youth-community relations.
The situation is further complicated by rising youth unemployment, lack of conflict resolution skills, limited civic engagement, and weak dialogue mechanisms. These vulnerabilities not only hinder development but also create fertile ground for violent extremism and social fragmentation.
This project was conceptualized through conflict mapping exercises, community consultations, and stakeholder dialogue involving youth, local government, and civil society organizations (CSOs). The goal is to foster peace, stimulate economic opportunities, and strengthen social bonds.
Strategic Objectives
Overall Goal:
To build a peaceful and resilient community in Doda Ward by equipping youth and local actors with the skills, tools, and platforms needed to manage conflicts constructively and collaboratively.
Specific Objectives:
- Enhance the capacity of youth and marginalized groups in conflict resolution and leadership.
- Promote intergenerational and intergroup dialogue to resolve community-level disputes.
- Revitalize cultural practices, traditional conflict resolution mechanisms, and arts for peace promotion.
- Leverage media and digital platforms to disseminate peace messages and influence positive behavior change.
- Strengthen institutional and governance frameworks for conflict prevention and accountability.
Program Outcomes
Expected Outcomes:
- Youth groups actively engage in conflict prevention and resolution efforts in Doda Ward.
- Community members adopt peaceful and constructive approaches to managing disputes.
- Traditional arts, customs, and community spaces are used to foster unity and collective identity.
- Inclusive media campaigns foster a culture of peace and resilience.
- Strengthened collaboration among government authorities, CSOs, and local communities.
Target Groups and Stakeholders
Primary Target Groups:
- 10 youth (5 young fishermen/fisherwomen and 5 vegetable farmers)
- Local Government Authorities (LGA) representatives
- Community elders and religious leaders
- Women and youth in vulnerable circumstances
Secondary Beneficiaries:
- 3,398+ residents of Doda Ward
- Border communities near Kenya (for cross-border awareness)
- Listeners of TK FM, Care FM, and other media outlets (estimated reach: 2 million)
Key Stakeholders:
- AFRIWAG (implementing partner)
- We World & 4H Tanzania (technical partners)
- Tanga regional government & Mkinga District Council
- Local CSOs, women’s groups, youth associations
- TK FM Radio, Care FM, Dar 24, and Msumba Blog
Conclusion
KUJENGA AMANI is more than a project—it is a community movement that elevates youth as peacebuilders, honors culture as a catalyst for change, and unites communities through empathy, inclusion, and shared vision. By empowering the next generation and amplifying their voices, this program lays a durable foundation for peace in Tanga and beyond.
