4th National Peace and Entertainment Summit
Category
peace-summit-michael edem-duke
BACKGROUND
Exploring the Role of Culture and Entertainment in Building Peace
In commemoration of the International Day of Peace 2023, I had the privilege of being invited to speak as a Panelist at the 4th National Entertainment and Peace Summit, organised by Drum Majors for Peace in collaboration with the China Cultural Centre, Abuja.
SOLUTION
Convened under the theme, "Building Harmony Through Entertainment and Cultural Diplomacy," the summit brought together policymakers, creatives, development practitioners, peace advocates, and cultural stakeholders to examine the role of entertainment and cultural exchange in fostering peaceful coexistence and strengthening social cohesion.
During the discussions, I shared perspectives on the importance of leveraging media, citizen engagement, and strategic communication to advance peace-building and strengthen relationships across diverse communities. At a time when divisions are increasingly amplified by misinformation and polarisation, I emphasised the role of storytelling and communication in bridging differences and promoting mutual understanding.
Our conversations highlighted the growing relevance of cultural diplomacy and the creative sector in addressing social fragmentation and contributing to national development. More importantly, they reinforced the idea that peace-building is not solely the responsibility of governments and institutions. Artists, media practitioners, cultural organisations, and citizens all have a role to play in shaping the narratives and values that influence society.
Participating in the summit offered a valuable opportunity for dialogue across sectors and disciplines. It also served as a reminder that beyond their economic and entertainment value, culture and creativity possess a unique ability to foster empathy, strengthen social bonds, and create spaces for constructive engagement.
As societies continue to confront deepening social divisions and mistrust, investing in dialogue, cultural exchange, and shared experiences remains essential to building more peaceful and inclusive communities.
_
About Michael Edem-Duke
Michael Edem-Duke is a Solutions Journalist, Public Policy Strategist, and Development Consultant. He is the Founder of Citizen Journalists Network (CJN Africa) and works at the intersection of leadership, public policy, research, media, and social development, designing solutions that strengthen public systems and and translating citizen-led insights into practical solutions to drive meaningful impact across Africa.
