Mary Njoki Urges Youth to Choose Peace Over Violence
Not everyone will be working. You have to seek and build it. Some are practicing digital farming. Others share new information. This is the way to a good life
Njoki appealed for restraint with the democratic process. She warned that violence leads to unnecessary loss of life.
By Juliet Jerotich
Mary Njoki,an associate of the Echo Network Africa Foundation (ENAF), called on youths to steer clear of political violence and focus on building a peaceful and productive future. She spoke while celebrations for youth week were underway.
“I don’t want this youth week to fizzle away like nothing had ever happened in my life,” Njoki insisted. “Some youths are mistreated by their parents due to their political views. Politics in itself is not wicked, but it becomes unsafe when you are coaxed into regions you would rather not venture.”
She warned that violence leads to unnecessary loss of life. “When you are going somewhere you do not want to go, you have 10, 15, even 20 young men dead. It’s because they don’t get it. Peace is not going where you do not want to go.”.
Njoki appealed for restraint with the democratic process. “If a leader’s term is not yet complete, give them their time until 2027. If you want to change the government, do it then. Get involved in your food, your work, your vote, not your life.”
She mourned physically combats with police. “The police are our sisters, brothers, even husbands. When we beat them, we are beating ourselves. If they consider us family, they won’t harm us.”
Talking about gender violence, Njoki said, “We can’t just sit and watch women being beaten at home because of domestic problems. Talk instead. Violence fixes nothing.”
She advocated for clemency in conflict. “If one has gone wrong, leave him alone. Do not shame him. Sorrow will cease, and life will go on.”
Njoki urged young people to create their own opportunities. “Not everyone will be working. You have to seek and build it. Some are practicing digital farming. Others share new information. This is the way to a good life.”
She also stressed the importance of incorporating disabled individuals. “Respect them. If something is wrong, correct it in kindness. Violence destroys our peace.”
Njoki concluded on an emotional note. “Even if I am injured, I don’t wish to see another young life lost. Let us choose peace, work, and harmony. That is how we map Kenya’s future.”
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