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APES 1 HIGHLIGHTS

The Africa Peace and Environment Summit (APES) 2024 was convened to address the interconnectedness of people, planet, and peace in Africa. Over 400 delegates from 17 countries participated, recognizing the urgent crisis of climate change and the need for solutions. The summit explored case studies, held discussions, and celebrated inspiring initiatives while acknowledging the challenges hindering progress. Ultimately, the summit brought delegates together and inspired a collective call to action for a sustainable, equitable, and peaceful Africa.

DAY 1: YOUTH DAY

The Africa Peace and Environment Summit (APES) Youth Day brought together a diverse group of students, young leaders, activists, peace and environmental practitioners, organisations and other stakeholders under the theme, “Harnessing Youth Power,” to explore the interlinkages of people, planet, and peace. The day's objective was to inspire the youth to harness their potential to drive positive change within their communities and across Africa.

With 70% of Africa's population being youth, APES Youth Day celebrated International Youth Day and aimed to empower young people to address environmental and social challenges. Recognizing the damage done to the planet, today's youth are taking personal responsibility to drive change and ensure a healthier future for Africa.


DAY 2: WOMEN'S DAY

The Africa Peace and Environment Summit (APES) Women’s Day celebrated the critical role of women in promoting peace and environmental sustainability. Embracing the theme “Women as Front Runners,” the event brought together women from various sectors, including activists, practitioners, and policymakers, to continue the momentum.

APES Women’s Day focused on showcasing women’s achievements, sharing best practices, and fostering collective action towards inclusive peace and environmental sustainability. It served as a testament to the transformative impact of women’s leadership and the critical importance of their voices in shaping policies and actions for meaningful progress toward a peaceful, sustainable, and prosperous Africa.

DAY 3: EXPLORING LINKAGES BETWEEN PEOPLE PLANET AND PEACE

At the Africa Peace and Environment Summit, the focus turned to the fundamental question, ‘How are peace and the environment linked, and why must we address them together to create a just and sustainable future for all?’

Dr. Dan N. Odaba's presentation explored the interconnectedness of peace and environmental issues. He emphasized the importance of international cooperation, sustainable development, and environmental peacebuilding to address resource scarcity, climate change, and pollution. He highlighted the role of stable governance, international agreements, and disarmament in achieving these goals.

DAY 4 :EXPLORING PERSPECTIVE BETWEEN PEACE AND ENVIRONMENT

APES focused on exploring diverse perspectives on the interconnectedness of peace and the environment. By hearing directly from communities and key stakeholders, the goal was to understand how different groups engage with these two interdisciplinary fields and develop inclusive and effective approaches that reflect their needs and values.

This engagement is crucial for embracing community-led initiatives and local capacities for peace and environmental sustainability.

DAY 5 :EXPLORING SOLUTION BETWEEN PEACE AND ENVIRONMENT FOR AFRICA.

The final day of the Africa Peace and Environment Summit (APES) was marked by a series of impactful reflections, discussions, and commitments, centering on actionable steps toward achieving peace and environmental sustainability. The day culminated in the adoption of a Call to Action, setting the framework for the way forward.

Pre-Summit Events

The Pre-Summit Hike and Tree Nurturing, held on Saturday, 10th August 2024, at Ngong Hills, brought 59 participants together as a prelude to the Africa Peace and Environment Summit and to reconnect with nature and each other. Starting with a hike from Corner Baridi, the day was about the hands-on environmental conservation, with participants taking part in a tree nurturing session led by Jeniffer Micheni and Mr. Mwangi. This day set the perfect tone for the summit, reinforcing that collective action and care for the planet are key to creating lasting peace.