Name of organization:
Amani Center
Description of organization:
Amani Center was established in Tana River County, Eastern Kenya, during 2017. The organization was inspired by the need to give a voice to the local community, encouraging an open dialogue and an attitude of peace throughout a region which has historically been deeply divided. Since its’ establishment, Amani Center has since focused on the use of information and communication technology for development, humanitarian, and civilian protection work.
Context:
Tana River County continues to suffer from tribal clashes between the Orma pastoralists and the Pokomo farmers, in addition to being targeted by al-Shabaab, and the separatist group Mombasa Republican Council. Repercussions following such conflicts include hate speech, separatist ideologies and religious tensions, often followed by further violence between community members. Radio broadcasts spreading messages of hate contribute to violence and violent extremism in Kenya but radio broadcasts promoting peace and tolerance can have the opposite effect. In Tana River County, community radio stations have engaged in various peacebuilding activities, however, many local radio journalists still lack formal training in nonviolent dialogue, respecting diversity, and preventing violent extremist narratives.
Proposed project and expected results:
Amani Center proposes to address this issue by enhancing the capacities of community radio journalists to become knowledgeable peace ambassadors within Tana River County. They will be trained to produce and broadcast messages on peace, preventing violent extremism and social cohesion. Radio shows on these topics will be broadcast on Amani FM, which is a community radio station licensed by Amani Center. In addition, content developed will be shared with other community radio stations in areas susceptible to violence.
By the end of the project, Amani Center expects to:
- Train eight community radio journalists on topics including nonviolent communications, preventing and countering violent extremism, and social cohesion.
- Produce and broadcast fifteen radio programmes on the topics of peace, prevention of violent extremism, and enhanced social cohesion.
- Establish a content sharing mechanism and network with community radio stations in other areas susceptible to conflict and radicalization.
- Further engage radio listeners through two peace dialogues with youth and religious leaders.
Project coordinator: Bonface Ochieng Opany
Contact information: amanifm88.1@gmail.com
Website: facebook.com/AmaniFM.TanaRiverCounty