KGS Peace Week (KPW) is a flagship initiative of the KGS Peace Institute rooted in the aspirations of the Southwest community and championed by the Ministry of Interior, Local Government, and Reconciliation, alongside peacebuilders and institutions across the Southwest State of Somalia. It has grown into a premier annual platform that unites diverse actors to reflect on and advance peace and reconciliation efforts tailored to the realities of Koonfur Galbeed (KGS).

Purpose and Vision

KPW provides an inclusive space to showcase ongoing peacebuilding efforts, amplify local voices, and promote meaningful participation from all stakeholders — including grassroots leaders, community elders, formal institutions, diaspora networks, and international partners. Its vision is to strengthen social cohesion and foster innovative, context-driven approaches to peace that address the unique challenges of the region.

Why It Matters

Peacebuilding in KGS is complex and multifaceted. It requires collaboration across multiple layers of society, cutting across governance, youth and women’s empowerment, reconciliation efforts, community security, and resilience-building. KPW serves as a bridge that connects diverse perspectives, breaks down silos, and sparks creative, locally grounded solutions to pressing challenges such as violence, exclusion, and instability.

Key Activities

- Dialogues and Panel Discussions on peace, governance, and reconciliation
- Cultural Celebrations showcasing the heritage and diversity of KGS
- Peace Awards honoring local champions of peacebuilding
- Community Forums and Sports Events fostering unity and inclusion
- Business Exhibitions promoting economic resilience and opportunities
- Climate Action for Peace
- Meet your mayor and talk to your governor

Impact and Reach

Beyond strengthening partnerships within Southwest State, KPW creates meaningful linkages with national and international peace actors, reinforcing the pivotal role of KGS in Somalia’s broader peace and development journey — starting from the community level and expanding outward.