HWPL and Zambia Interfaith Network Sign Peace Cooperation MOU Ahead of 2026 Elections

In preparation for Zambia’s upcoming 2026 presidential election, religious leaders and an international peace organization have formalized cooperation aimed at strengthening social harmony and democratic stability.

The Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL) and the Zambia Interfaith Networking Group (ZINGO) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) at the ZINGO office in Lusaka to promote peace collaboration and interfaith cooperation.

The agreement reflects a shared commitment to fostering a mature culture of peace in Zambia during a politically sensitive period.

Religious Cooperation Ahead of National Elections

Zambia has long upheld the national value of “One Zambia, One Nation,” maintaining social stability and unity across religious and cultural lines. However, election seasons have historically brought heightened political tensions, increasing the risk of division.

In Zambian society—where religious leadership plays a significant role—faith communities can either contribute to social cohesion or, if influenced by political interests, intensify polarization.

The newly signed MOU signals a proactive effort by religious leaders to model peaceful electoral culture and prevent potential conflict during the 2026 election cycle.

ZINGO and HWPL: Converting Religious Influence Into a Peace Asset

ZINGO is a prominent interfaith body in Zambia composed of Christian and Muslim leaders. It has served as a communication bridge between government institutions and civil society.

Through this agreement, both organizations aim to strengthen cooperation so that religious leadership becomes a stabilizing force in national life.

The partnership is also significant as a public–civil collaboration model focused on long-term national stability through conflict prevention and interfaith dialogue.

Implementing Principles of the DPCW in Zambia

Under the MOU, HWPL and ZINGO agreed to implement key principles of the Declaration of Peace and Cessation of War (DPCW) within Zambia’s local context.

Particular emphasis will be placed on:

• Articles 8 and 9, which address freedom of religion and respect for religious identity

• Article 10, which promotes peace education and the institutionalization of a culture of peace

Both organizations plan to carry out joint activities that position religion as a foundation for social integration rather than division.

Government, Youth, and Civil Leaders in Attendance

The signing ceremony drew participation from government officials, education representatives, and media figures, reflecting national-level interest in the initiative.

Sheikh Ali Musa Ayami, speaking on behalf of Sheikh Yussuf Ayami of the Family Development Initiatives, described the partnership as “very encouraging.” He noted that ZINGO demonstrates the power of interfaith solidarity through dialogue, while HWPL continues to practice global peace commitment beyond borders and beliefs.

He emphasized that the cooperation sends a strong message that faith, grounded in wisdom and sincerity, can serve as a positive force in society.

Youth representatives were also present, symbolizing the intergenerational dimension of peace-building. Their participation underscored the idea that peace must extend beyond declarations and become a shared promise to future generations.

Planned Initiatives for Sustainable Peace

Following the MOU, HWPL and ZINGO plan to implement phased initiatives including:

• Peace education programs for out-of-school children and local youth

• Expansion of interfaith understanding through the Interreligious Peace Academy (IRPA)

• Strengthening cooperative frameworks among religious leaders to prevent and manage community conflict

These initiatives aim to institutionalize peace culture within Zambian society through education, dialogue, and collaborative leadership.

HWPL’s Role in Global Peace Advocacy

HWPL is an international peace NGO founded by a Korean War veteran who experienced the devastation of war firsthand. The organization operates as a neutral interfaith platform and promotes the DPCW as a comprehensive framework for conflict prevention, peace institutionalization, and peace culture development.

HWPL’s Zambia branch has worked alongside government agencies, religious leaders, and civil society to localize and implement DPCW principles in practical ways.

A Model of Preventive Peace Cooperation

As Zambia approaches the 2026 election, this interfaith MOU represents a preventive peace effort—one that seeks to strengthen democratic culture before tensions arise.

By aligning religious leadership, youth participation, and international peace principles, the partnership between HWPL and ZINGO illustrates how faith-based cooperation can contribute to national stability and long-term social harmony.

Source: https://vo.la/uDrv66Z