HWPL and IPYG Join Hands with Government and Religious Leaders

to Conduct Drug Prevention and Environmental Cleanup Campaigns

The Zambia branch of the international peace NGO Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL), the International Peace Youth Group (IPYG) and the Youth Empowerment Peace Workshop (YEPW), conducted a campaign under the theme "Clean Up, Crime Down" in the Mandevu area of Lusaka, Zambia, to mark the United Nations (UN)-designated International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking. The campaign aimed to promote drug prevention and encourage the creation of a cleaner, healthier environment.

The campaign was organized to mark the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, with the goal of raising awareness among young people about the dangers of drug abuse while encouraging them to help improve their local environment. The initiative was made even more meaningful through the participation of Zambian government agencies, health and environmental organizations, religious leaders, and community representatives. It was particularly noteworthy for bringing together stakeholders from diverse sectors to work toward a shared goal.

During the event, participants attended a drug prevention education session that highlighted how drug abuse can have serious consequences not only for an individual's health but also for their education, relationships, and future. Betty Phiri, Coordinator of the International Peace Youth Group (IPYG), said, "Drug prevention is a responsible choice that protects young people's health, education, relationships, and future. Choosing to say no to drugs and helping friends make the right decisions are small actions that can become meaningful acts of peace."

Following the educational session, participants took part in an environmental cleanup campaign along the route from Ngombe Clinic to New Ngombe Market. The Lusaka City Council and local organizations provided garbage collection trucks and cleaning equipment, while participants worked alongside community residents to collect litter and help create cleaner streets.

Nkisu Katemangwe, a Lusaka City Youth Councillor who participated in the volunteer activity, said, "Working alongside volunteers who are dedicated to serving the community has been a great source of inspiration for me. I will continue to take greater responsibility in protecting our local environment and actively contribute to future community cleanup efforts."

In particular, the campaign served as an excellent example of how voluntary youth participation and collaboration among multiple organizations can create a positive impact, and it was featured by major local media outlets. The HWPL Zambia Branch plans to continue its monthly "Clean Up, Crime Down" campaign and gradually expand the initiative throughout Lusaka. Although the word "peace" may sometimes seem abstract, healthy lifestyles, a clean environment, and small acts of consideration for one another are the first steps toward building a more peaceful society.

Reference : https://vo.la/KWq1Trk 

HWPL, Practicing Peace in Local Communities!

The International Women’s Peace Group participates 

as a speaker at the NGO Forum during the UN CSW70.

In the global community, access to justice for women is increasingly seen as a cornerstone of sustainable peace rather than just a basic right. There is a growing understanding that true social justice begins with ensuring that women and girls are equally protected within legal systems. Alongside this shift, international organizations and NGOs are actively working together to address structural barriers. This reflects a broader recognition that peace must be built on tangible rights, not just ideals.

At a recent forum held in New York, the challenges faced by women and girls in accessing justice—particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa—were brought into focus. Experts and advocates from various countries discussed how institutional limitations and societal barriers restrict the realization of rights. There was a strong emphasis on the need for international cooperation to develop practical solutions. The conversation moved beyond identifying problems and toward implementing actionable strategies.

One of the speakers highlighted that access to justice for women is not optional but essential. She pointed out that when women are legally protected and respected, it creates the foundation for stability and peace across society. This perspective frames women’s rights not just as individual concerns, but as key elements of collective well-being. In this sense, legal protection becomes a fundamental building block for peace.

The discussions also placed strong emphasis on the importance of gender-sensitive legal support. Participants agreed that providing effective legal services for women and girls is a responsibility that governments must fulfill. They also noted that existing inequalities within judicial systems often hinder access to justice. As a result, concrete policy measures and practical solutions were proposed to address these gaps.

It was particularly emphasized that improving women’s legal status can help reduce community conflicts and contribute to peacebuilding. This is especially evident in conflict-affected regions, where empowering women often leads to greater social stability. There was a shared understanding of the need for a coordinated international response. Increasingly, women are being recognized as central actors in the pursuit of peace.

The forum also reinforced the idea that peace must go beyond declarations and be embedded in systems and real-world practices. It highlighted the importance of expanding women-led leadership in peace initiatives. Collaborative efforts among countries and organizations are expected to continue in promoting a culture of peace. While gradual, these changes are shaping a clear and meaningful global trend.

Reference : https://vo.la/IpKKlBz

The Wave of HWPL Peace Blossoming In Zambia, Kenya and Malaysia