NAIROBI, 29th June, 2024 (WAM) -- The Muslim Council of Elders participated in the Global Peace Leadership Conference held in Nairobi, Kenya, which was attended by numerous African leaders and experts.

In a speech delivered on his behalf by Adama Dieng, the former UN Special Adviser on the Prevention of Genocide, the Secretary-General of the Muslim Council of Elders, Judge Mohamed Abdelsalam, highlighted the urgent need to return to religious teachings that promote the preservation of life, peaceful coexistence, respect for others, and the fostering of tolerance and mutual understanding among nations and peoples, especially in light of today's challenges, conflicts, wars, and the rise of hate speech, racism, intolerance, and discrimination.

He emphasised the importance of deepening the connection between African values and economic development strategies, highlighting the significance of the Ubuntu philosophy, which means "I am because you are," which fosters a more inclusive, human-centred approach, leading to sustainable economic growth and empowering society for a thriving African renaissance.

He also noted the urgent need to develop a culture that not only protects human rights and dignity but also enhances and solidifies the principles of human fraternity and pointed out that this vision is one of the main objectives the Muslim Council of Elders seeks to achieve through collaboration with various institutions and organisations globally and in Africa, including civil society actors, political leaders, and religious figures.

He also called for intensified efforts to find solutions that contribute to spreading and promoting a culture of dialogue, values of tolerance, and peaceful coexistence among different nations and peoples, along with other measures that enhance peace and stability worldwide.

The Global Peace Leadership Conference in Nairobi focused on engaging policymakers, educators, religious leaders, government officials, and all stakeholders to explore ways to promote the African renaissance by leveraging the continent's unique heritage, spirituality, and traditional values.

It also discussed mechanisms for enhancing constructive cooperation and partnerships across continents, strengthening the concept of ethical global citizenship, and supporting efforts for peacebuilding and sustainable development.