HWPL Zambia’s November Interfaith Dialogue Continues the Conversation on the Role of Religion in Peacebuilding

On Saturday, 15th November, HWPL Zambia Branch’s the World Alliance of Religions’ Peace (WARP) Office hosted its November Interfaith Dialogue online under the theme “The Role of Religion Part II.” As this month’s dialogue followed the theme introduced in October, many participants returned, including religious leaders, journalists, youth, social activists, and community members, joined by an even wider range of groups and citizens. Government officials from the Office of the Vice President, including Sikota Noanga, Religious Affairs Officer, also participated, reflecting the continued interest and support for interfaith cooperation in Zambia.

The session opened with remarks from Juliet Makwama, a Journalist and Communications Specialist from Lusaka. Having joined previous dialogues, her presence as a keynote speaker highlighted that conversations on religion and peace extend beyond faith leaders. She emphasized the need to reflect on the true purpose of religion and its role in fostering peace, noting that this dialogue provides an open space for anyone committed to putting the principles of peace into action.

Participants joined the dialogue with different expectations and hopes. Mwelwa Chisanga from the United Nations Youth Association of Mulungushi University said he was motivated by desire to learn how people of various religions can live together in harmony. After the session, Junior Councillor Bernard Kambole from the Lusaka City Council shared that religion is central to people’s social life and can serve as a pillar of world peace, adding that this dialogue helps deepen understanding religion’s role in peacebuilding. Although attendees came from different ages and backgrounds, their thoughts converged on a shared wish to see peace practiced in everyday life. Their responses showed how this dialogue continues to bring together diverse hopes and guide them toward a common purpose.

This month’s discussion featured presentations from Sheikh Yussuf Ayami, representing the Islamic faith as Team Leader of Family Development Initiatives; Ram Auerbach, representing Judaism as Chairman of the Jewish Board of Deputies Zambia; and Peace Banda, The External Affair Office of National Bahá’í Center, representing the Bahá’í faith. Responding to the guiding question, “According to your faith, how is peace defined, and can you share one example of its practice and one way you can personally act to promote it?”, each speaker drew from their respective scriptures and teachings to share perspectives on peace.

As the 2025 Interfaith Dialogue series enters its final month in December, the year’s discussions underscore that this ongoing dialogue will continue move forward. Throughout the year, religious leaders and citizens committed to peace have gathered to learn, share, and build mutual understanding. In addition to discussing peace through scripture, HWPL has demonstrated practical approaches to peace through initiatives such as the Zambia 918 Peace Assembly and other peace-related activities. With the December session ahead, many anticipate that the continued expansion of these dialogues will help foster a culture of peace across Zambia.

About HWPL WARP Office

The HWPL WARP Office is an international platform where religious leaders and believers engage in regular interfaith dialogues based on their scriptures. Established by Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL), the initiative promotes mutual understanding, respect, and peacebuilding through the shared wisdom found in diverse faith traditions. Since its founding, WARP Offices have been held in more than 130 countries, providing a space for cooperation among religious communities and encouraging collective action toward lasting peace.