Interfaith Mediation Center

Interfaith Mediation Center Programs

The Interfaith Mediation center was started by former enemies, Imam Mohammed Ashafa, a Muslim cleric, and Pastor James Wuye, a Christian minister. The Interfaith Meditation vCenter promotes awareness of the psychology behind religious violence and address its root causes. They draw on the power of spirituality and the peaceful interpretation and application of religious texts.

Interfaith Mediation Center has over 10,000 members and trains the country’s youth, women, religious figures, and tribal leaders to become civic peace activists.

Why the need?

Kaduna State is in northern Nigeria and home to many of the northern political and economic elite. Its population of approximately 6 million is divided almost equally between Muslims and Christians. With its mix of ethnic-religious groups, Kaduna continues to be a hot spot for conflict points in Nigeria. The different communities compete for a greater share of the limited resources and for political power. Each community feels it is politically and economically left out.

In this environment, religion can be used to gain political power and youth are many times exploited by leaders who seek to gain personally from the conflict.

How Team Efforts Translate to Impact

All funds teams raise will go to support the daily operating costs of the Interfaith Mediation Center. 

How the Interfaith and Mediation Center Creates Sustainable Global Change

The Interfaith Mediation Center has credibility in the community since both the Iman and Pastor have been involved in the conflict/resolution process from the program's beginning and both have suffered personal tragedies because of the conflict. Their efforts will create a community where acceptance and compassion set the precedence.  

*Photos courtesy of Ashoka