Next we hear from learners who have written poems on peace. The poems are instructive and insightful and for us as peace runners they offer a window into the dreams, aspirations and challenges of these bright, young people. It is inspiring to see the sincere and serious way in which they have each reflected on peace, what it means and what is important to establish peace in both Namibia and Africa.

Here are a few excerpts from some of the poems:

(1) Lyamupu Namasiku

"Africa my continent, Africa my hom.
From Nigeria to Zimbabwe.
Namibia my motherland ...

One love, one peace.
With freedom I say no to xenophobia ...

We are all born of one nationality.
That is the human race.
I am human before African.
We are all part of the rainbow nation.
United we stand, divided we fall.
One love, one peace!"

(2) Claire Mataba

"Spilling blood, waging war.
This has never been us.
We judge because of colour.
Racism has become a song in our choir ...

If this is the new Africa.
Then I'd rather be bound in chains
Than to see my continent change."

(3) Faith Limani Limbo quotes from the writings of Sri Chinmoy:

"Expect not!
Suspect not!
Peace is all yours."

"O dreamers of peace, come
Let us walk together.
O lovers of peace, come
Let us run together.
O servers of Peace, come
Let us grow together."

(4) Merry Mokoxwa:

"It does not mean to be in a place
Where there is no noise, trouble or hard work.
It means to be in the midst of those things
And still be calm in your heart."