Mediation experts say mediation, peace and dialogue are essential tools for promoting unity, love and peaceful coexistence in society.
The observations follow a series of positive outcomes from peacebuilding, dialogue and conflict resolution trainings conducted for various stakeholders in Zomba which were facilitated by Alison Haly from Australia and Suzanna Sherkin from Canada, who are mediation practitioners dedicated to promoting constructive dialogue and resolving conflicts around the world.
Two teachers from Sakata Primary School in the area of Traditional Authority Nkagula who attended the training went on to establish a Peace and Dialogue Club at their school and the initiative has already begun transforming relationships among learners.
One of the teachers, who is also the club’s patron, Happy Kholoma, says the initiative has helped create a peaceful learning environment, with pupils now resolving their differences amicably.
“Some learners used to miss classes after being threatened by their classmates. However, that is no longer happening because there is now peace and harmony among learners through the Peace and Dialogue Club,” he said.
Second Grade Magistrate for Ntonya Magistrate Court in Zomba, Lloyd Banda, also praised the training, saying it has had a significant impact on his work as a magistrate as he regularly encounters disputes arising from family conflicts, assault cases, and other matters where relationships between parties have broken down for example divorce matters.
Banda added that the training has equipped him with practical skills in conflict analysis, effective communication, active listening, and alternative dispute resolution.
“As a magistrate, I have come to appreciate that behind every case is a human story, often involving deep emotions, misunderstandings, and unresolved tensions. The training has enabled me to approach litigants with greater patience, impartiality, and sensitivity while remaining firmly guided by the law,” he said.
Banda further said the peacebuilding training has enhanced both his professional competence and my appreciation of the judiciary’s role in fostering peace, justice, and sustainable conflict resolution.
Meanwhile, community leaders have commended the peacebuilding training, saying the skills acquired will help strengthen families and communities.
Village Head Mtima of Traditional Authority Nkagula in Zomba said her village is experiencing fewer conflicts because community members now understand the importance of peace, dialogue and harmony.
In their remarks, Sherkin and Haly emphasised that peace and harmony are catalysts for sustainable development, saying communities that embrace dialogue and mediation are better positioned to achieve social and economic progress.
Participants in the peacebuilding trainings included community leaders, civil society organisation representatives, police officers, education officials, students and other stakeholders.