The idea of tackling this problem head on has given rise to the development of a Peace Center in Awassa.  The Awassa Peace Center offers a unique blend of programs that enhance abilities to resolve conflicts, communicate in nonviolent ways, and participate effectively in a democratic society.  Co-sponsored by Aiki Extensions, Inc. and the Awassa Children's Project, and drawing on a number of kindred programs, the Center is located on the Awassa Youth Campus in the capital city of Ethiopia's Southern Region and provides a fitting home for the Southern Regional office for EINEPS.

The center was inaugurated on Sunday, February 5, 2006, with a program that included a Walk for Peace through the streets of Awassa, featuring local music, acrobatics, aikido demonstrations, and street theater; remarks from Ethiopian culture heroes; public demonstrations of aikido and of Nonviolent Communication work; presentation of books from EINEPS and Books from Africa; laying flowers on the site chosen for the temporary Peace Center; and documentary video of the whole event. This ceremony was lead by our board member and respected Ethiopianist scholar Professor Donald Levine of the University of Chicago.