Tanzania is one shining example of peaceful coexistence. Despite having more than 123 different tribes and all major faiths present, people have managed to live peacefully. The Interreligious Council for Peace in Tanzania, the IRCPT, was established after several consultations, discussion and dialogue among all institutionalized and registered religious bodies of Tanzania (Ahamadiyya Muslim Jamaat of Tanzania, Baraza Kuu la Waislam Tanzania (BAKWATA), The Supreme Muslim National Council Tanzania, Baraza Kuu la Taasisi za Kiislam Tanzania, Baha’i, Buddhist, Christian Council of Tanzania, Council of Pentecostal Churches Tanzania, and Hindu Council of Tanzania). These religious leaders in Tanzania agreed on a purpose and principles, and signed a Memorandum of Understanding. IRCPT believes that each religion is unique and equally contributes to the nation’s peace and security, and to the wellbeing of its people. The IRCPT seeks to provide religious leaders and their communities with a platform for constructive dialogue, peace building, capacity building and advocacy for peaceful development. IRCPT´s platforms reach from national to village levels and implement its vision of peace through Inter-Faith Committees (IFCs) and Inter-Religious Village Community Banks (VICOBA). Together, religious leaders and communities work to reduce poverty, maintain peace, empower women, strengthen youth leadership and protect the environment through collaborative efforts. IRCPT facilitates mediation n in case of disputes, before conflicts arise.
