 Scores of Kenyan youth Sunday stood in solidarity with their Norwegian counterparts to mark the first anniversary of the killing of 77 people by a lone gunman at a youth camp.
The attack that left the normally staid Norway shaken was carried out by Anders Behring Breivik who has since claimed that he acted to defend Norway against immigration and multi-culturalism. On Sunday the Kenyan youth visited the acting Norwegian ambassador to Kenya Elin Rognlie in a show of solidarity.
Those present included representatives from UN Habitat, the African Conference on Volunteer Action for Peace and Development Alliance, the East Africa Peace Service Corps, Volunteer Involving Organizations Network and Global Peace Youth Corps,Mathare and Kibera Slums representing the larger sentiments of youth of Kenya.
The youth representatives in a statement read to the Ambassador intimated that "violence is never the way nor the solution but the ultimate road to more destruction". The statement further explained that "…the young men and women of Kenya are in solidarity with our fellow Norwegian youths. Never again shall young people turn against our fellow human beings irrespective of circumstances."
Kenya is approaching its general elections and the youth pledged to be the agents of change and peace at this critical electioneering period.
In her remarks the ambassador stated "…we think of the victims-fathers, sons, daughters, aunts, siblings-every day in our discussions and we will never forget. The Prime Minister of Norway a year ago stated that open debate is the strongest tool in standing up to these atrocities." The ambassador led the team in observing a moment of silence in remembrance of the young victims of the ruthless attacks.
Youth working with the UN Habitat further thanked the Embassy for their continuous support in youth empowerment programs particularly the Urban Youth Fund, the Moonbeam and the One Stop Centers that have provided opportunities to many young people.
The youth presented a flower wreath to the Ag .Ambassador and her family in showing their consolation to the many families that were victims to the attacks. |
