Over 30 women trained in photography to promote peace

Young women from Kenya, Tanzania and Mozambique exhibited more than 180 photos depicting gender stereotypes, daily challenges and aspirations. 

The 30 women underwent intensive training in photography in a project dubbed Photovoice under the Kujenga Amani programme.

Rolled out by the European Union and implemented by We-World and various partners, the programme is aimed at promoting peace and challenging gender stereotypes in the respective communities.

We World, Kenya communication officer Fred Odera said the project was conducted in a bid to encourage participants to speak up and provide restitution within the targeted communities.

Through the programme, participants were encouraged to capture and highlight stories that promote peace, unity and resilience. 

Odera said the photographs produced by the beneficiaries were showcased in local exhibitions and online platforms, providing them with an opportunity to share their unique perspectives with a broader audience.

"We trained over 10 girls in each country and compiled their photos, which convey specific messages," he said.

The 30 were equipped as peace builders and agents of positive change within their communities and to help craft a more inclusive and peaceful society.

Through their lenses, the participants will reinforce the critical role of women and girls in promoting peace and challenging societal norms.

Photovoice covered aspects of photography including technical skills, storytelling techniques and ethical considerations in documenting sensitive issues.

Conflict sensitivity was integrated into every phase of the project and was informed by an understanding of the peace dynamics specific to the targeted communities.

The training was conducted between February and May and comprised women aged 18-35 years old.

He said the program focused on young women to help amplify their voices in the regions where they are often underrepresented in the field of photography and public discourse.

We World supports the use of the media and arts to empower youth and open dialogue at community level to reduce and manage tensions and challenge harmful stereotypes, Odera said .

Another exhibition focused on photo-voicing is in the planning stages.

"Following this regional event, the exhibition is set to travel to Italy, where it will showcase the various challenges faced by communities in Africa, as well as highlight the efforts of peace promoters across the continent." 

The international platform will bring global attention to the young women's powerful visual narratives.

Investing in the talents and aspirations of young women will ensure they contribute to lasting peace and gender equality in East Africa and beyond.

Odera added that they are working with CSOs and local authorities in efforts to address gender-based violence within communities.

This was to ensure that peacebuilding and the protection of rights are prioritised at the grassroots level.

Through the partnerships, rights-focused NGOs receive regular training and grant support to understand conflict dynamics and promote peace among youth in maskanis—informal gathering places within communities. 

Mwanaharusi Rashid, who benefited from the programme, said the experience has empowered her to view the world differently and to act in promoting peace through newfound skills.

They are looking forward to applying their skills in their local communities, using photography to document and address issues such as conflict, poverty and gender-based violence.

Rashid said during the training, they utilised lesos as a medium to convey messages of peace and love.

Lesos are traditionally used by Swahili women along Kenya's coastal strip, often adorned with specific messages that reflect the occasion, serving as a symbol of beauty and a tool for communication.

She added that the team visited youth maskanis and boda boda stages to raise awareness about gender equity and peace through photography.

"Our conversations focused on embracing new gender norms to promote equal development and create a peaceful environment where everyone can thrive," she said.

The initiative comes at a time when the power of visual storytelling is increasingly recognised as a potent tool for social change.