Thinking Out of the Box: Quakers Contending with Peace, Justice & Security in Eastern Africa

In this First Monday Lecture, Dr. Esther Mombo will consider how Quaker approaches to peace, justice, and security relate to the ongoing violence in Eastern Africa. This region, home to the largest Quaker population in the world, is also challenged by several tragic conflicts.

Esther will discuss ways of boosting peace and security in the region beyond military reactions and peacekeeping forces. In particular, she will explore the role of different Quaker approaches to peace, such as the Alternatives to Violence Project. What are the lessons we can learn from Quakers, as well as other groups like African women theologians, about a holistic approach to peace and security? This “holistic approach,” drawing from indigenous, Quaker, and other peace-building methods and practices, leads to a peace and security where human beings flourish in the context that God has placed them.