JOINT INITIATIVE FOR STRATEGIC RELIGIOUS ACTION (JISRA)
Joint Initiative for Strategic Religious Action (JISRA) is an interfaith partnership including Catholic, Islamic, Protestant, Interreligious and Secular consortium partners and local partners which will promote Freedom of Religion and Belief (FoRB) in Ethiopia, Indonesia, Kenya, Mali, Nigeria and Uganda. In Kenya, this project targets four counties; Isiolo, Migori, Kakamega and Nakuru counties. This project was held with an ultimate goal of Peaceful and just societies where all enjoy Freedom of Religion and Belief (FoRB).
The participants were mobilized from across religious institutions and included mainly a cross section of Christians and Muslims. These were selected as leaders representing their faith. They included youth women and men with different portfolios within their different faith.
Some of the topics tackled by the participants include:
- How religion has contributed to peacebuilding and conflict transformation, national unity and cohesion.
- How religion has contributed to violence, incitement, hatred and lack of peace.
- How women and youth contribute to peaceful coexistence and cohesion.
- Strategies often used to promote peaceful coexistence and cohesion, challenges and opportunities involved.
The project is aimed at having the following impact in the society;
- Resilient and inclusive communities in which religious actors are sustainable advocates of FoRB and interfaith peace.
- Inclusive, open and constructive religious communities.
- Peaceful interaction between religious communities.
- Context and religion sensitive FoRB policies and practices.
Let us all be ambassadors of peace in our communities irrespective of our religion, race and tribal differences.