20 July, 2026 · Peace Project
Building peaceful communities requires more than resolving conflicts—it requires strengthening relationships between generations. Through its Peace Project, the Regional Associates for Community Initiatives (RACI) is bringing together young people and elders in Atiak Town Council and Atiak Sub-county to rebuild trust, improve communication, and foster mutual understanding among community members.
One of the growing challenges identified within the project communities is the widening intergenerational divide between youth and elders. Misunderstandings, limited communication, and differing perspectives have contributed to strained relationships that undermine community cohesion and peaceful coexistence.
To address this challenge, RACI organized open intergenerational dialogue sessions in Kibogi Village and Pacilo Village, bringing together young people—including members of the local youth groups commonly known as Aguu—alongside elders, village chiefs, Local Council leaders, and other community members.
Creating Safe Spaces for Dialogue
The dialogue sessions created an inclusive platform where participants openly discussed community challenges, misconceptions between generations, and their shared responsibility in building peaceful and thriving communities.
Many young participants expressed that they often feel misunderstood, labelled, or excluded from important community decision-making processes. At the same time, elders shared concerns about declining respect for traditional leadership, cultural values, and community norms.
As conversations unfolded, both generations began to appreciate each other's experiences, challenges, and aspirations. The sessions demonstrated that genuine dialogue can break down stereotypes and replace suspicion with understanding.
"People usually see us as troublemakers, but today we were given a chance to speak. We want peace in our community, and we want elders to guide us instead of judging us."
— Youth Participant, Aguu Group
Listening Across Generations
Community elders welcomed the opportunity to engage directly with young people. They emphasized that peace and development can only be achieved when both generations work together, recognising that each has valuable contributions to make toward community development.
"Our community cannot move forward if the elders and youth walk on different paths. We must sit together, listen to each other, and guide the future together."
— Community Elder, Kibogi Village
Local Council leaders also praised the initiative, noting that regular dialogue between generations has the potential to reduce conflict, strengthen relationships, and encourage greater community participation.
"Peace begins with communication. When youth and elders talk openly like this, misunderstandings reduce and the community becomes stronger."
— LC1 Leader, Pacilo Village
Strengthening Peace Through Partnership
The dialogue sessions reaffirmed that communities thrive when youth and elders work together as partners rather than as opposing groups. Elders contribute wisdom, cultural guidance, and lived experience, while young people bring innovation, energy, creativity, and fresh ideas that can drive positive change.
By creating opportunities for honest conversation and mutual learning, RACI is helping communities rediscover the value of collective responsibility, shared leadership, and respect across generations.
Looking Ahead
As the Peace Project continues across Northern Uganda, RACI remains committed to promoting inclusive dialogue as a foundation for lasting peace. Strengthening relationships between youth and elders not only reduces conflict but also creates stronger, more resilient communities capable of addressing shared challenges together.
Through continued engagement, communities in Atiak are demonstrating that peace is built when every voice is heard, every generation is valued, and everyone works together toward a common future.
Author: Ssebunya Edymond
Programs Coordinator | Monitoring & Evaluation (M&E)