|
Kotido Peace Initiative
Kotido Peace Initiative (KOPEIN) is an interfaith organization working to promote peace and fundamental human rights in Kotido district and neighbouring communities. The organization is a joint peace initiative of four major denominations operating in Kotido namely Catholic, Church of Uganda, Muslim and Pentecostal Assemblies of God (PAG).
KOPEIN has been operating since 2000 and was fully registered as a Non Governmental Organization (NGO) in May 7th 2004.
The organization’s target groups include the kraal leaders, diviners/soot tellers, women and young warriors. The main objectives of the organization include the following goals and objectives:
- Promote the culture of dialogue and reconciliation as the basis of resolving conflict and tension among the people in Kotido district and the neighbours.
- Mobilization of all the actors involved in the promotion of peace, security and dissemination of information about fundamental human rights.
- Capacity training in conflict handling mechanism, peace building and security for harmonious co existence.
- Liaise with networks within and outside government so as to foster peace and development.
- Promotion of spiritual inspiration for mentality and behavioural change in safeguard against destructive attitude among the Karimojong.
- Promote creation of awareness to safeguard against spread of HIV/AIDS in Karamoja.
Kotido peace initiative also works with other actors from within the sub region of Karamoja, other neighbouring regions of Acholi/Lango and Teso region. In cross border, KOPEIN networks with LOKADO a local NGO based in Lokichoggio Turkana in Northern Kenya and Turkana civil society network (Riamriam), based in Lodwar. In Sudan, KOPEIN networks with Toposa Development Association (TDA) a local NGO working in Toposa pastoralists of Southern Sudan and all Governments at various levels of the three countries.
The goal of KOPEIN is to foster peace, unity and to act as a centre for excellence in the promotion of peaceful change, constructive dialogue and better public understanding of conflict situations in Kotido District.
The “mission” of the organization is to promote community integration and development among people living in Kotido District and her neighbours.
|
