Kenya’s influence in shaping grassroots peacebuilding has been spotlighted on the continental stage after Re-Imagining New Communities was recognized as Outstanding Peace and Security Initiative of the Year 2025. The award was presented at the International Peace and Security Awards (IPSA) ceremony hosted in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.
The award recognizes organizations and individuals whose work has had a measurable and lasting impact on communities, advancing both local and regional stability.
For Re-Imagining New Communities, the recognition marks a milestone in its mission to transform societies by empowering children, faith communities, and local leaders to embrace dialogue and coexistence.
In responding after receiving the award Sahlim Charles, Executive Director of Re-Imagining New Communities underscored the deeper meaning of the award.
“This is not just about Re-Imagining New Communities,” he said. “It is about the countless children we support through peace labs and the teachers who have built inclusive classrooms.
This recognition is a reminder that peace is possible when people walk together.”
Re-Imagining New Communities is best known for its Children-Led Peace Labs, where children and youth are equipped to resolve conflicts constructively, and its Faith for Peace initiative, which helps religious leaders transform congregations into hubs of reconciliation.
Observers at the IPSA noted Re-Imagining New Communities’ model reflects a rising trend in Africa — shifting from top-down peacebuilding to grassroots-driven approaches that empower communities themselves as custodians of peace.
The recognition by the African Leadership Initiatives for Impact (ALII) places the organization among a select group of organizations redefining peace and security work on the continent.
It also signals a growing appreciation for Kenya’s contribution to continental peace efforts at a time when East Africa faces persistent challenges of conflict, extremism, and polarization.
“This award challenges us not to rest, but to dig deeper,” added Charles. “Peace is not an event, it is a journey — and this medal is a call to walk further on that journey with courage, humility, and hope.”
