This is our 4th update of the Rotary Peace Scholars sponsored by our district.George Kimani of Nairobi, Kenya, was our 11th scholar and completed the Certificate program at Chula in Thailand in 2016. He was sponsored by the Rotary Club of Springfield Twin Rivers, . He was the head of the peace building, education and advocacy project funded by UNICEF and UNHCR in the Dadaab refugee camp complex, the world’s second largest camp after Syria. With tens of thousands of people flooding over the Kenyan border from the raging conflict in Somalia and South Sudan, people in the five refugee camps continue to face a looming humanitarian crisis, among them psychosocial and conflict resolution management. His work entailed planning, coordinating and supervising over 500 trained peace building and conflict resolution teachers in all 33 primary schools in Dadaab. He established peace clubs in each school with members engaged in activities such as debates, tree planting, sporting activities and inter-camp competitions.
Here is his 2014 update.
…My work in the peacebuilding sector has grown significantly. The fellowship provided me with the opportunity to deepen my understanding of conflict resolution, humanitarian response, and governance. The knowledge and skills I gained during the program have been instrumental in shaping my career and advancing the impact of my work.
Professionally, I’ve been able to contribute to various projects and initiatives focused on promoting peace and stability in communities affected by conflict. The fellowship not only enhanced my technical expertise but also expanded my network, connecting me with like-minded professionals across the globe who are equally passionate about peacebuilding… It has reinforced my commitment to fostering peaceful societies and has inspired me to continuously seek innovative approaches to address the challenges faced by vulnerable populations.
I’m grateful for the opportunity the Rotary Peace Fellowship through the Rotary Club of Springfield Twin Rivers provided, and I look forward to continuing this journey of promoting peace and development in the years to come.
Thank you again for your support and for the role you’ve played in my professional growth and always open to future opportunities.
Ongoing Peace work
Now that millions of people are having to live in refugee camps it becomes more and more important to encourage peaceful actions within those camps.
Chuck Root, Medford
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Chuck Root
One of my many goofs – I meant to say, Here is his 2024 update….(not 2014). My apologies….