Delegates gather at the Nelson Mandela Hall at the African Union Commission.

The Peacemakers Network joined several of its members at the Celebration of the World Interfaith Harmony Week held at the African Union Headquarters in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

The event brought together 350 participants, including religious, spiritual, and traditional leaders, policymakers, and representatives from the African Union and UN agencies, to discuss the role of religious communities in Africa towards advancing peace, human dignity, the preservation of the environment, sustainability, and freedom of religion and belief.

The gathering was organized by the Inter-Religious Council of Ethiopia in partnership with United Religions Initiative Africa, G20 Interfaith Forum, AU-Citizens and Diaspora Directorate, AU-ECOSOCC& AU Interfaith Dialogue Forum, with aims to foster mutual understanding and cooperation among people of diverse religions, spiritual expressions, and indigenous traditions.

Network Secretariat meets with Ms. Hazel Dixon and Ms. Malaz Yousif of the African Union’s Citizens and Diaspora Directorate.

Network Executive Director, Dr. Mohamed Elsanousi moderated a panel discussion on “Building Harmony Around Shared Religious Concerns,” focusing on the role of religious leaders and actors from religious communities and faith-based organizations in sharing best practices, shaping global policy agendas, and promoting a culture of peace and human dignity. Dr. Elsanousi also participated in discussion on the role of religion in conflict resolution and peacebuilding.

This event was not only a celebration of Interfaith Harmony Week, but an opportunity for religious and traditional actors from across the region to discuss key global policy issues of interest. As an outcome of the meeting, practical policy recommendations were made to the African Union.