Conflict Transformation Training

Equipping Communities to Build Lasting Peace

Conflict is an unavoidable part of life—but when managed constructively, it can lead to deeper understanding, reconciliation, and growth. SADRA Conflict Transformation’s Conflict Transformation Training program equips individuals, communities, and institutions with the practical tools and theoretical foundations needed to navigate and resolve conflict nonviolently.

This program strengthens local capacity to address social, political, and interpersonal tensions—fostering long-term peace and resilience across South African communities.

What Is Conflict Transformation?

Unlike conflict resolution, which often focuses on short-term solutions, conflict transformation addresses the root causes and structures that sustain conflict. The goal is not just to end disputes but to transform relationships, systems, and mindsets in ways that build sustainable peace.

SADRA’s approach emphasizes

Empowerment of local actors

Nonviolence and dialogue

Restorative justice principles

Systemic change through education and training

Training for Impact

SADRA’s training programs are inclusive, adaptable, and grounded in real-life community dynamics. Training is available for:

Community leaders and peace committees

Youth and student groups

Civil society organizations

Faith-based organizations

Teachers and peer mediators

Postgraduate students and peace researchers

Each session is designed to be participatory, culturally relevant, and solution-oriented.

Key Modules Offered

Foundations of Conflict Transformation

Understanding the nature, sources, and types of conflict. Exploring transformative approaches that go beyond resolution to foster lasting peace.

Mediation and Dialogue Facilitation

Training participants to mediate disputes, facilitate community conversations, and guide conflicting parties through structured dialogue.

Peacebuilding & Reconciliation

Exploring processes of healing, truth-telling, and community rebuilding—especially in post-violence or transitional contexts.

Conflict-Sensitive Development

Integrating peace strategies into development work, ensuring that interventions do not worsen existing tensions.

Peer Mediation for Schools and Youth

Training learners to become mediators among their peers—creating peaceful learning environments and reducing school-based violence.

Research and Knowledge Sharing

SADRA integrates academic research and field-based learning to inform its training content. The organization has partnered with local universities and global institutions, including the Mennonite Mission Network, to ensure that its methods remain evidence-based and globally informed.

SADRA also documents and shares insights from training projects to contribute to the growing body of African-led peacebuilding scholarship.

Program Outcomes

Graduates of SADRA’s training program gain:

Practical tools to resolve and transform conflict

Increased confidence in engaging with complex social challenges

Stronger networks of peacebuilders across sectors

Opportunities for continued mentorship and involvement in SADRA initiatives

Get Involved

Together, we can transform conflict into collaboration—building communities that are safer, stronger, and more united.