By Mercy Mumbua

The Global Programs team from Search for Common Ground, an international non-governmental organization, made a courtesy call today at Blue Radio, an online radio station run by Gilitics Media in Kisauni, Mombasa County.

The delegation included Michael Watt, SFCG's Vice President for global programs; Judy Kimamo, the Country Director for Kenya, Somalia, and Ethiopia; and Roanne Edwards, the organization's Associate Director of Philanthropy.

During their visit, the team engaged with Blue Radio staff and discussed their initiatives and mission.

Michael Watt emphasized the importance of community support and collaboration, stating that "Not one person is responsible for success in any organization. We all are a community and must depend on each other, building bridges across divides."

Michael Watt, SFCG's Vice President for global programs, interacts with the host at Blue Radio station during a courtesy call tour of SFCG partners in Mombasa. Photo: Ali Mzee

Addressing the challenges faced by youth, including unemployment and insecurity, the team highlighted their inclusive approach to bridge the divide.

"We work with everyone in society, that is the youth, children, adolescents, and women. All this because we understand community structures and can identify meaningful development opportunities," said Madam Kimamo.

She noted that over 70% of Kenya's population is young, making youth engagement crucial for effective programming.

Judy Kimamo, SFCG Country Director for Kenya, Somalia, and Ethiopia speaking to the Blue Radio team. Photo: Ali Mzee

Since 2017, Search for Common Ground has operated in Mombasa, Kwale, Kilifi, Tana River, Lamu, and Garissa counties, offering funding, training, mentorship, internships, and jobs in an effort to end violent conflict and build healthy, safe, and just societies.

The team also stressed the importance of involving youth in security conversations, particularly concerning the safety of young journalists and women in media. "Our goal is to create safe spaces for diverse voices to come together, learn, and build trust," Watt added, advocating for multi-partiality in peace-building efforts.

The Blue Radio team interacts with the Global Programs team from Search for Common Ground. Photo: Ali Mzee

Reflecting on their collaboration with Gilitics Media, they shared a success story from the COVID-19 lockdown, when traditional community engagement was restricted, whereby they partnered to reach communities through their network of skilled young people to speak to the people about the pandemic. Today, Gilitics Media is a vibrant hub for young journalists, digital peace-builders, and creators.

Gilitics Media exemplifies the power of collaboration and community engagement in fostering peace and development. Through its inclusive approach and dedication to youth empowerment, it is paving the way for a brighter future in Kenya.

As Michael Watt aptly stated, "Change is possible, and peace is possible." Let us continue to work together, bridging divides and building a world where everyone can thrive in safety and harmony.