As the 2015 presidential election approaches, the United Nations Operation in Côte d'Ivoire (UNOCI) wants to encourage women to take an active part in politics and play an important role in the organisation of elections without violence.



This was the objective of a seminar of reflection which brought together some 40 women from different politial parties, civil society and non-governmental organisations in Bouaké on 10 June 2015.



Speaking at the event, Xavier Blais from UNOCI's Political Affairs Division, which co-organised the seminar with the Mission's Civil Affairs Section, told the women that they play an important role in initiatives which aim to promote national reconciliation and social cohesion. This was the reason why a seminar was organised for them in an effort to encourage them to become more active as leaders of their respective political parties.



In addition, the women who came from Yamoussoukro, Korhogo and Bouaké improve their knowledge of the notion of leadership. The consultant trainer, Trah Siagbé focused on providing them with the tools to develop their self-confidence, sense of responsibility, independence, innovation and solidarity.



They were also sensitised on the importance of political tolerance, democratic principles and the link between human rights and elections.

The initiative was supported by the representative of the Prefect of the Region, Achille Koré, who urged the women to play an important role in the nation-building, particularly in the electoral process which should complete the national reconciliation process. In addition, Mr. Koré encouraged to dare and to end the cliche which says tha women can only do housework.



Most of the participants expressed their appreciation for the training. Sarah Sanogo, president of the Association of Businesswomen for Economic Revival in Bouaké promised to share the informations she had received in order to ensure that the 2015 election is not marred by violence.



For Marie Thérèse Yao, a future candidate in legislative elections in Taabo, the informations received during the training are so important that they need to be shared with women leaders in her region, so that together they can pacify their region.