NCIC Vice-Chairperson Commissioner Irene Wanyoike addressing youth during the Shape of Unity Festival in Nyeri on April 19, 2018

NCIC Vice-Chairperson Commissioner Irene Wanyoike has challenged Kenyan youth to embrace ethnic diversity and peaceful coexistence. Speaking during the Annual Shape of unity festival held in Nyeri County from 19th – 21st April 2018, the Vice chairperson urged all Kenyans to take responsibility and unite in fighting for transformation, unity and peaceful co-existence among Kenyans.

The event themed ‘May We Dwell in Unity’ adheres to the Commission’s Mandate to unify and integrate Kenyans into a cohesive society guided by the National Values and Principles of Governance. The annual festival achieves this though targeting young people nationally to become accustomed to peaceful practices among themselves.

Also, in attendance at the Festival was NCIC Senior Programmes Officer, Mr. Richard Nderitu who stated that young people have a positive capability to fight ethnic divides in Kenya. He encouraged youth to take up active roles as ambassadors of peace and unity.

“Kenya is our identity; tribal and ethnic groups are superficial,” Mr. Richard stated.

The three-day festival was characterized by rhythmic song and dance, captivating visual arts and spoken word performances all expressing the importance of peaceful coexistence among Kenyans and diversity as a fundamental element for economic growth and political stability in Kenya.