Nairobi, 21 September 2010 – The Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General for Somalia, Dr Augustine P. Mahiga, the Special Representative of the Chairperson of the African Union Commission for Somalia, Ambassador Boubacar Diarra and the IGAD Facilitator For Somalia Peace and National Reconciliation, Hon Kipruto Arap Kirwa have called for the Somali groups that are locked in armed conflict against each other to observe a ceasefire on this solemn day and build on it to secure lasting peace.
The International Day of Peace was established through a United Nations Resolution in 1981 and the first International Day of Peace was celebrated the following year. The day is aimed to strengthen the ideals of peace and alleviate tensions and causes of conflicts. In addition, in December last year the African Union Assembly of Heads of State meeting in Libya agreed that 2010 should be the "Year of Peace and Security in Africa".
“Peace is a basic human right and should be enjoyed by everyone,” said the envoys. “This is particularly true in Somalia where civilians have suffered conflict, violence and hardship for the past two decades. It is heartbreaking to hear of the difficulties they face in their everyday lives.
“The people of Somalia yearn for peace and stability. We need to do all we can to provide security and stability for everyone and in particular – hope for the young. We do not want future generations to suffer as their parents have done.”
Each year events are organized to commemorate and celebrate this day. Activities have been planned in Nairobi, Mogadishu, Garowe and Hargeisa.
“Anyone, anywhere can mark International Day of Peace,” said the envoys. “Let us all rededicate ourselves to making peace in Somalia a reality.”