Abstract: This study examines the effect of youth participation in the Youth Development Fund (YDF) on community security in Mtwara Region, Tanzania, using an explanatory sequential mixed-methods design. Quantitative data were collected from 486 youth beneficiaries and non-beneficiaries across five Local Government Authorities using structured questionnaires, while qualitative evidence was generated through 35 Key Informant Interviews and five Focus Group Discussions. Quantitative analysis involved descriptive statistics, Principal Component Analysis for index construction, and Ordinary Least Squares regression, complemented by thematic analysis to contextualize statistical findings. The results reveal a statistically significant positive relationship between youth participation in development financing and community security outcomes (β = 0.412, p <0.001). Youths with higher levels of access to and participation in YDF activities reported reduced involvement in delinquent behaviour, improved livelihoods, and enhanced trust and social cohesion within their communities. Qualitative findings corroborate these results by highlighting reduced petty crime, strengthened collective responsibility, and improved relations between youth and local authorities in areas with active YDF engagement. The study concludes that youth development financing, when combined with meaningful participation and institutional support, functions as an indirect peacebuilding mechanism and provides empirical evidence on the development–security nexus at the sub-national level in Tanzania.

Abstract: Peace building is a global issue that the world seeks significantly. In Ethiopia, conflict and violence among the youth have increased than ever before. To achieve peace Shashemene Catholic Parish has a critical role in contributing to peace building among the youth aged 15-24 through different activities. The study’s general objective was to examine how the Catholic Church has contributed to peace building among the youth in Shashemene Catholic Parish, Meki Diocese, Ethiopia. The specific objectives were: (1) To explore the nature and dynamics of the existing conflict among the youth in Shashemene Catholic Parish. (2) To investigate how Mahiber youth association helps to shape identity among the youth in peace building in Shashemene Catholic Parish. (3) To examine how football activity among the youth of Shashemene Catholic Parish assists in peace building. (4) To examine how life skills training can help to strengthen peace building among the youth in Shashemene Catholic Parish. The researcher used Mixed-Method research design. Data were collected using a questionnaire and interview guide employing simple random and purposive methods. Quantitative data were analyzed by use of Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS), and qualitative data were analyzed by thematic content narration and direct quotation. The study concluded that Shashemene Catholic Parish activities contributed to youth peace building, and played a significant role. The study recommended that Shashemene Catholic Parish has to work in coordination with Meki Diocese Justice and Peace office and with government officials of Shashemene town to bring peace among the youth.