Each year the International Day of Peace (IDP) is observed around the world on 21 September. The UN General Assembly declared this as a day devoted to strengthening the ideals of peace, through observing 24 hours of non-violence and cease-fire. Never has our world needed peace more than in the current error. The theme for the 2023 International Day of Peace was “Actions for Peace: Our Ambition for the Global Goals.” This theme underscores our individual and collective responsibility in fostering peace.
Muslim Centre for Justice and Law (MCJL) particularly conducts sports for peace activities as a platform for positive catalyst to empower faith communities and help to strengthen social cohesion among the youth. The International Day of Peace was celebrated in Mayuge district on 21st September 2023 to educate people especially religious actors and youth about the importance of peaceful coexistence and conflict prevention. MCJL in partnership with Faith to Action Network (F2A) organized semi-finals and the final sports for peace tournament (football and netball matches) at Minoni Primary school in Mpungwe sub county, Mayuge District. Sports for peace increased community engagement resulting in the promotion of peace, solidarity, and respect for each other’s religion. Unlike wars, no one died in the sports for peace (football and netball), no children and youth got orphaned, and no wives became widows. The competing teams both had hope that the religious fights had ended and their families are together again. All the players and team leadership longed for peaceful coexistence.
Mayuge town council netball captain receiving the trophy and prize money from the RDC, MCJL President and the religious leaders on behalf of the netball team.
Mpungwe sub county football captain receiving the trophy and prize money from the RDC, MCJL President and the religious leaders on behalf of the football team.
Some of the local leaders,religious leaders and MCJL management greeting some of the football players before the football match
Buwaaya sub County vs Malongo sub County netball match
A penalty being scored by one of the players from Mayuge Town Council team