Religious leaders and stakeholders are encouraged to harness their influence to promote peace and unity as part of efforts to counter inter-religious conflicts and violent extremism in the region. Speaking at the 16th Conference on Advocacy for Inter-Religious Dialogue, German Ambassador Sonke Siemon highlighted the development setbacks caused by conflicts that have drained the sub-Saharan labor force. He urged religious figures to prioritize peace and support socio-economic welfare to foster regional stability and development.