Nairobi, Kenya
Young people from different faith traditions gathered at the Catholic University of Eastern Africa (CUEA) in Nairobi on 18 and 19 September 2026 for the annual Interfaith Youth Forum on Peace and Integral Ecology. The two-day gathering brought together young peacebuilders, environmental advocates, religious congregations, civil society organisations and learning institutions to discuss peaceful elections, affordable renewable energy and climate justice ahead of Kenya’s 2027 General Elections.
Day 1: Connecting Faith, Peace and Renewable Energy
Speakers from the Inter-Faith Youth Forum at the Catholic University of Eastern Africa (CUEA)
The first day of the Forum focused on the relationship between faith, peaceful civic participation and the role of renewable energy in building sustainable communities. With Kenya preparing for the 2027 General Elections, discussions explored how young people can contribute to shaping political conversations while promoting peace, social cohesion and ecological responsibility.
Under the theme “Youth in Faith, Renewable Energy Access for Fair and Peaceful Elections in Kenya”, participants reflected on the challenges surrounding energy access and affordability, particularly the need for renewable energy solutions that respond to the realities of communities. The conversations highlighted the importance of decentralised renewable energy and the need for political leaders to consider how their energy policies can improve livelihoods and reduce the financial burden on households.
The Forum also created space for young people from different faith traditions to recognise their shared responsibility in promoting peaceful elections and environmental justice. Participants raised concerns about the manipulation of young people for political purposes, electoral violence, tribalism and hate speech, emphasising the importance of integrity, dialogue and peaceful democratic participation.
Faith leaders were recognised as important voices in encouraging young people to engage constructively in civic processes while remaining committed to ecological stewardship. Through these discussions, the Forum reinforced the connection between peace, social justice and care for creation, highlighting how faith communities can contribute to a more inclusive and sustainable future for Kenya.
Day 2: Young People Unite for a Fossil-Free Future
The young peacebuilders, environmental advocates, religious congregations, civil society organisations took to the streets to demonstrate about their concerns
On 19 September, the Forum concluded alongside the Global Week of Action, connecting the discussions in Nairobi to a wider movement calling for an end to fossil fuel expansion and a just transition towards renewable energy. We along with the Kenyan Chapter joined faith groups, civil society organisations, young climate advocates and other stakeholders in raising their voices for a more just and sustainable energy future.
Participants called for an end to new fossil fuel projects and stronger investment in accessible, affordable renewable energy. Their advocacy highlighted the need for an energy transition that places communities at its centre, addresses energy poverty and ensures that the benefits of renewable energy reach those who need them most.
In a joint statement, participating organisations outlined several demands, including redirecting public support away from fossil fuels towards renewable energy, reducing financial barriers to clean energy technologies and introducing measures to make electricity more affordable for low-income households and small businesses. They also called for greater accountability from political leaders and meaningful community participation in decisions about energy development.
Interfaith Youth Forum 2026 Press Release
With the 2027 General Elections approaching, young people challenged political aspirants to include clear commitments on decentralised renewable energy, energy affordability and climate justice in their manifestos. Their message emphasised that energy access is not only an environmental concern but also a question of economic opportunity, social justice and community well-being.
The two-day gathering highlighted the importance of connecting ecological conversion with practical advocacy. By bringing together young people from different faith traditions, the Forum demonstrated how shared values of peace, justice and care for creation can contribute to public conversations about the policies shaping Africa’s future.
As Kenya looks towards the 2027 General Elections, the message from the Interfaith Youth Forum is clear: young people are calling for an energy future that is peaceful, just, affordable and renewable.
Photo of all the attendees on Day 1 at the Inter-Faith Youth Forum at the Catholic University of Eastern Africa (CUEA)