The milestone attained by Universities and Colleges Students Peace Association of Kenya (UCSPAK) in fostering harmony and promoting electoral literacy in Kenya over the last decade so far has been a remarkable one. The ending could be even better.
To appreciate and fete the good work, UCSPAK organised a banquet that was beyond just a normal dinner—it was a moment for the participants to respond to a clarion call to action. It was proof that when youth are given the space, the tools and the trust, they seize the moment and stand up to be counted. They take the lead and run — not just for peace, but for a better tomorrow.
Thus, it was right for their effort to be recognised and there was no better setting than picking an evening that radiated desire, hope, inspiration and youthful purpose at a gala themed Run for Peace Kenya Charity Banquet. The event marked UCSPAK 10th anniversary (from April 2015 to April 2025) in collaboration with the Commission to strengthen democracy especially among the youth in high learning institutions.
What made it even more special was that it was entirely student-led. Young people from universities across the country came together planned, organized and brought to life this powerful event to promote peace, unity and accountability. The event attracted over 50 universities.
The Commission was represented by Joyce Ekuam, Ag. Director Voter Education and Partnerships (DVEP) and took part in a discourse themed “Tackling Corruption through Youth Engagement: Strengthening Participation in Elections and Governance for a Culture of Accountability.” Ekuam advised the youth who intend to join elective politics to focus on strengthening participation in elections and governance to boost a culture of accountability.
“If we you want to build a better Kenya, young people must be part of the solution—starting with understanding what integrity, transparency, and accountability mean in everyday terms. Corruption doesn’t just affect high offices—it touches our lives every day. From job opportunities to access to services, corruption is a heavy burden on both the economy and society. Many youth feel helpless or left out of governance conversations.
"Only 2.6% of parliamentarians globally are under 30 years old. That’s an insignificant percentage, especially when youth make up 40 percent of all registered voters in Kenya.
“Youth should learn good governance, know their democratic rights and exerciuse it by voting. Youth also need to hold their leaders to be accountable. As IEBC we see you. We hear you. And we need you—because peace and accountability start with the youth,” said Ekuam.
For 10 years, UCSPAK has built platforms for students to raise their voices, promote peace and contribute to nation-building in meaningful ways. And the award gala was in honour and recognition of youth distinguished support to UCSPAK mission and to commemorate UCSPAK 10th Anniversary and the 10th Garissa University terror attack.
The Run for Peace Kenya is a student-led initiative dedicated to promoting peace, unity and social cohesion through arts and sports. The initiative was started by UCSPAK in conjunction with the Office of the President, Directorate of National Cohesion and Values (Peace Building and Conflict Management Department), Ministry of Education, Ministry of Youth Affairs, Creative Economy and Sports, Kenya Medical Training College (KMTC) and Athletics Kenya.