A Moment of Profound Unity, Flag Ceremony in Nairobi, Kenya

November 14, 2025

This reflection was shared by Carlos Palma, founder of Living Peace International, who joined young educators and peace trainers gathered in Nairobi for a transformative conference titled “Together for a New Africa.”

Over several days, young teachers from multiple Nairobi schools, trainers from diverse peace-building movements, and catechists from 14 African countries came together in an atmosphere of deep listening and shared purpose. Participants opened their hearts and spoke honestly about their lived experiences, the wounds, traumas, and ongoing suffering caused by past and present wars and armed conflicts in their home countries. Their testimonies were both painful and courageous, forming the emotional and spiritual foundation of the gathering.

In this context, the World Peace Flag Ceremony carried an especially profound and almost sacred significance. It became a solemn call for peace across every nation of Africa and around the world. Many participants were visibly moved; for some, the moment brought them to tears as flags representing each country were lifted with intention and reverence.

The ceremony concluded with one minute of complete silence, offered as a prayer for the countless victims of war and as a renewal of each participant’s personal and collective commitment to building a culture of peace.

In the words of Carlos Palma, “That’s it in a synthesis.” But for those who were there, the experience was far more than an event; it was a shared promise for a new future.