The people of the far western village of Dohouzon in the Sub Prefecture of Meo, Toulepleu division have been mobilized to fight violence against women and to create a peaceful electoral environment.



"We thank UNOCI for making us understand better the work of the UN Mission and how we can contribute to the fight against violence done to women," the Chief of Dohouzon village, Felix Zean said on Wednesday 3 December 2014 at the end of a sensitization meeting organized by the UN Operation in Cote d'Ivoire (UNOCI).



Speaking at the meeting, a representative of UNOCI Public Information Office, Vincent Kouakou educated the population on the need for forthcoming elections to be held in a peaceful environment. "Elections are an opportunity to express your choice and enable the country to go on with reconstruction after the period of crisis. Prepare for elections by avoiding violent language and action," he advised.



Edouard Munyeshuli of the Human Rights division spoke of the equality of human beings and called on the men to involve women in the management of family property and in decision-making. He said women have the capacity and qualities that can be put at the service of development in the village.

Moussa Mohamed of UN Police called on parents to fight against domestic violence and early pregnancy of girls. "I call on you to exercise your parental authority in order to give your children a good education and a bright future."



An official of UNOCI Disarmament, Demobilisation and Reintegration (DDR) division, Augustin Ungi Iye said it was time to rid the country of arms in order to reestablish a lasting peace. "Now is the time to do it so as to benefit from projects. If not, you would not be considered for the reintegration programme which ends in June."



Other matters discussed include the demarcation of the forest between the village and Meo and the failure by the national Authority for DDR (ADDR) to take into account ex-combatants who have already been identified and attributed a number in view of reintegration.