In a world increasingly divided by conflict and strife, Njomo Omam Esther stands as a beacon of hope and leadership. As the Executive Director of Reach Out Cameroon (ROC), she remains at the forefront of an urgent call for inclusive peacebuilding that resonates beyond borders. Her tireless advocacy for youth involvement in peace initiatives exemplifies a commitment not only to addressing the pressing issues of today but also to fostering a sustainable future.
At the recent Stockholm Forum 2025, Omam Esther was a compelling voice in the chorus for a reimagined approach to peace. This year’s theme, "Shifting Powers: Rethinking Peace and the Future of Security," made clear that the old paradigms of conflict resolution are failing us. With rising global insecurity and disinformation proliferating fear and division, Esther championed a bold vision that places local communities and youth leadership at the center of the peacebuilding process.
"Peace is everyone’s business," Esther proclaimed, countering the narrative that views conflict resolution as the sole purview of governments and diplomats. During her powerful address, she spotlighted the game-changing potential of young leaders. “Youth are not just participants; they are the leaders of peace,” she stated emphatically, urging the audience to recognize that sustainable solutions must come from the ground up, crafted by those who live the realities of their communities.
Esther’s dedication to youth empowerment was one of the key takeaways from the forum. In highlighting the vital role that younger generations play in advocating for peace, she drew attention to the fresh perspectives and innovative ideas they bring to the table. With the urgent need for preventative, rather than reactive, measures in conflict zones, the call for early, local action has never been more pressing.
While advocating for local engagement, Esther also emphasized the importance of the private sector’s involvement in peacebuilding. "We need innovation and investment to support grassroots voices," she argued, pointing out that the private sector can no longer afford to remain a bystander. It's time for businesses to harness their resources and influence, investing in the very communities they operate in. The nexus between economic development and sustainable peace is clear, and Esther is not afraid to tackle this critical conversation head-on.
The Stockholm Forum also served as a platform for Esther to bring attention to the voices from the Global South often marginalized in international dialogues. By amplifying these perspectives, she is challenging the status quo of multilateralism, ensuring that it becomes more inclusive and responsive to the realities faced by communities worldwide. She reminds us that for peace to thrive, it must be rooted in the lived experiences and aspirations of those impacted by conflict.
As the #StockholmForum2025 concluded, Njomo Omam Esther’s powerful presence and unwavering commitment to a more just, peaceful world left an indelible mark. Her vision is clear: the future of peace is shared, and it demands immediate action. As we reflect on the conversations sparked and the insights shared during the forum, let us carry forward her rallying cry—transforming the narrative around peace from one of despair to one of collective potential and empowerment.
Njomo Omam Esther is not just an advocate; she is a movement. In a time when bold imagination is needed more than ever, let her example serve as an inspiration for all of us to rethink not only the mechanisms of peace but the very foundations upon which we build our futures. The call to action has been made, and it is up to each of us to ensure that the pursuit of peace becomes a shared responsibility—starting now.
The 2025 Stockholm Forum on Peace and Development held at Münchenbryggeriet and it was hosted by SIPRI and co-convened with the Folke Bernadotte Academy (FBA) and the Swedish International Development Agency (Sida).
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