Chapter Report
UPF–Zambia Commemorates the International Day of Peace, 80th Anniversary of the United Nations, and 20th Anniversary of the Universal Peace Federation
By UPF Africa
Written by UPF-Africa
Thursday, 25 September 2025
Lusaka, Zambia – The Universal Peace Federation (UPF–Zambia) joined the international community in commemorating three landmark occasions: the United Nations International Day of Peace under the theme “Act Now for a Peaceful World”; the 80th Anniversary of the Founding of the United Nations under the theme “Building Our Future Together”; and the 20th Anniversary of the Founding of the Universal Peace Federation, established on September 12, 2005, in New York by Rev. Sun Myung Moon and Dr. Hak Ja Han Moon.
UPF–Zambia Commemorates the UN International Day of Peace, the 80th Anniversary of the UN, and the 20th Anniversary of UPF in Lusaka
The celebration, held on September 25, 2025, at the Peace Embassy in Lusaka, brought together 38 participants representing diverse sectors, including religious leaders from Christian, Muslim, and Jewish communities, academicians, civic and political leaders, students, artists, and peace advocates.
Opening Ceremony and Keynote Message
The program commenced with an opening prayer and introduction by Mr. Ackson Mwale, Director of Education of Couples and Master of Ceremonies.
Mr. Mweelwa Muleya, Director of Education, Training, and Advocacy at the Human Rights Commission of Zambia, served as Guest of Honour and delivered the opening remarks.
In his keynote message, Mr. Muleya highlighted that “peace is not merely the absence of conflict but the active pursuit of understanding, empathy, and cooperation.” He commended both the United Nations and UPF for their instrumental roles in advancing global peace, security, and interfaith dialogue. He emphasized that the future of peacebuilding rests on education, cultural exchange, and interreligious cooperation, urging every individual and community to become active agents of peace.
Program Highlights
The event featured inspiring activities that reflected unity, creativity, and commitment to peace, including:
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A youth performance of “We Are the World”;
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A video message from Dr. Tageldin Hamad, President of UPF International.
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The reading of a message from Ambassador Adama Doumbia, President of UPF–Africa;
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A video presentation introducing UPF and its global mission.
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A PowerPoint presentation on the Five Principles of Peace by Rev. Lawrence Banda, Vice Secretary General of UPF–Zambia.
Rev. Banda elaborated on the core values of UPF, including:
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God as the Parent of Humankind
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Humanity’s Spiritual Nature
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Marriage as a Sacred Institution
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The Family as a School of Love
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Living for the Sake of Others and the importance of interreligious and international cooperation for lasting peace.
Interactive Session and Reflections
An engaging interactive session followed, during which participants shared insights and recommendations. Many emphasized the need for reforms within the United Nations, particularly the creation of a Religious Council to promote moral guidance and interfaith cooperation at the global level.
The event concluded with a cake-cutting ceremony marking the three anniversaries, symbolizing unity and shared purpose, followed by a group photo session.
Testimony of Appreciation
In his reflection, Mr. Ram Auerbach, Chairman of the Jewish Board of Deputies, Executive Member of IAPD–Zambia, and Ambassador for Peace, expressed heartfelt gratitude for the invitation and applauded UPF’s dedication to dialogue and bridge-building:
“It was a privilege to witness the commitment of all gathered toward peace, unity, and interfaith dialogue. We commend UPF’s ongoing efforts in building bridges between communities, families, and nations, and look forward to continued collaboration to ensure the values of peace and mutual respect thrive in Zambia, Africa, and the world.”
Conclusion
The commemoration successfully united leaders and stakeholders from diverse backgrounds in reaffirming the importance of peace, cooperation, and dialogue. The event celebrated the enduring missions of both the United Nations and the Universal Peace Federation in advancing global harmony and strengthening Zambia’s role as a beacon of peace in the region.
