In a powerful address during the highly anticipated Run4Peace event in Monrovia, held to commemorate International Peace Day on Saturday, September 21, 2024, held at the Invincible Park, Sinkor, Moses N. Buwee, Founder of the African Youth Fellowship Liberia (AYF), urged renewed national commitment to peace, youth empowerment, and justice.
Addressing a diverse audience of civil society representatives, youth groups, and supporters, Buwee emphasized the importance of sustaining peace and addressing Liberia’s critical challenges.
Buwee expressed deep gratitude to all attendees, celebrating 21 years of peace in Liberia. He emphasized that peace is not a one-time achievement but a continued effort, emphasizing the importance of the day’s theme, “Cultivating a Culture of Peace”.
“Today, we gather not just to run or walk, but to send a powerful and unified message to our nation and the world: Liberia is steadfastly committed to peace, unity, and reconciliation,” Buwee declared.
“Every step we take signifies our commitment to sustaining peace and building a brighter future. Together, let us rise and build a future where peace and prosperity prevail,” he said.
In his speech, Buwee acknowledged the substantial challenges facing Liberia, particularly youth unemployment, the rising cost of living, and the devastating impact of drug abuse on the country’s young people. He noted that, while Liberia has made progress over the past two decades, these issues continue to threaten the nation’s stability.
“Our young people are in the deadly grip of drugs, with nearly 20% affected,” Buwee stated. “This crisis demands urgent, decisive action—it cannot be ignored.”
He called on the Liberian government to increase investment in youth empowerment initiatives, underscoring the need for programs that provide educational opportunities, job creation, and leadership development to secure a brighter future for Liberia’s youth.
“Our young people need hope, not neglect. They need rehabilitation and education,” he emphasized, calling for national efforts to tackle the youth drug crisis through rehabilitation and empowerment programs.
Turning his attention to Liberia’s political leadership, AYF Boss urged political tolerance, unity, and constructive dialogue. He implored leaders to prioritize the country’s long-term stability over short-term political gain, and reaffirmed AYF Liberia’s commitment to advocating for the establishment of a war crimes court.
“No sustainable peace can be achieved without justice. Justice is the bedrock upon which lasting peace is built,” he asserted, affirming the importance of accountability for past wrongs as a foundation for peace.
He extended profound gratitude to key figures who have contributed to peacebuilding in Liberia, including Nobel Laureate, Leymah Gbowee, and former President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf. He also expressed appreciation for the support of donors, including the EU Liberia, the US embassy, and Sweden etc. “Our sincere thanks also go out to our donors and international partners. Your support has been pivotal in making Liberia a better place,” he added.
The Run4Peace event, despite the rain, drew over 200 participants, who were united in their call for peace. Rev. Gerald B. Coleman, Head of the Advisory Board of the Universal Peace Federation Liberia Chapter, encouraged Liberians to sustain peace and applauded AYF Liberia for organizing the event.
“You are the next generation. We have failed—don’t fail Liberia,” Rev. Coleman urged the youth, reminding them of their critical role in shaping the country’s future.
Korpu Sheriff, winner of the Run4Peace Excellence Award in the women’s category, also called on Liberians to prioritize peace and fitness, encouraging women to make exercise a priority for their health and well-being. She thanked AYF Liberia for organizing the event, stating, “Fitness is essential, and I’m not surprised to win today. I encourage my fellow women to make exercise a priority because it strengthens both body and mind.”
The event was organized by AYF Liberia in partnership with the Gbowee Peace Foundation Africa/PeaceJam Lib, Universal Peace Federation, and others, including the Fire Service Community Youth Initiative, Hot Pepper and Oracle Daily News.
