Interfaith Dialogue Forum

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African Union Interfaith Dialogue Forum

Hashtag and slogan: “Inspiring Interfaith collaboration for a brighter tomorrow” #Interfaith4peaceinAfrica
Mandate: Ensure religions and faith-based entities are fully engaged in supporting peace, and human rights in the attainment of inclusive development in Africa. Furthermore, building synergies and supporting linkages between religious leaders, FBOs, policy makers, women and youth in the continent to support its sustainable development and achieving the aspirations of the African Union Agenda 2063

Important Facts

An Initiative created to bridge the gap and create spaces for discussion, fostering ideas and knowledge among religious leaders and policymakers on sustainable development issues in Africa
Bottom-up approach to peacebuilding and sustainable development
Founded in 2010 in Abuja Nigeria and convened under the auspices of the AU in partnership with the African Council of Religious Leaders and Faith-Based Organizations from Africa
The IFDF’s key governing body is the Steering Committee that takes lead on all activities linked to the initiative. The SC has 2mrepresetattives from the 5 regions In Africa and 2 youth representatives
Developed as an AU program of the Civil Society and Diaspora Directorate
KAICIID joined as a key partner to the initiative in 2016
Has held 4 forums discussing relevant issues related to Africa's development advancing justice peace and security in Africa
Inclusive development should include the involvement of all key figures in society, especially religious leaders, women and youth

Activities

Interfaith/Interreligious Dialogue: Uniting different beliefs and faiths around Africa on issues related to peace and security, women and youth, politics and governance and sharing good practices and experiences from around Africa

Contributing to Policies and Frameworks: Conducting relevant research and ensuring that religious institutes' perspectives and voices are incorporated in Agenda 2063 as well as their active involvement in existing AU frameworks and initiatives.

Raising Awareness/Advocacy: Conduct relevant online and offline campaigns to raise awareness of the importance of the role of religious leaders in sustainable peace and development showcasing the successes and impact that can be achieved in Interreligious Dialogue (IRD) and Conflict Early Warning Early Response (CEWER)

Capacity Building: Capacitate religious leaders and actors in keys skills to continue work and impact within communities i.e. communications, project management, resource mobilization and advocacy training etc.

Fostering Partnerships & Mobilizing Resources: Building a strong coalition of faith leaders and organizations as well as partners working towards integrating Intra and interfaith approaches to peacebuilding, governance and achieving Agenda 2063

Building Cohesive Communities: Through activities on the ground, ensure the role of women, youth, religious and traditional leaders representing different faiths and backgrounds are included within development activities. Encouraging holistic approaches that includes the participation of all members of the community.