The grassroots sensitization team of the UN Operation in Cote d'Ivoire (UNOCI) dubbed ONUCI Tour recently visited the village of Gbablasso in Biankouma division, 700 km north-west of Abidjan to promote peaceful cohabitation among the different communities and highlight the need for violence-free elections in 2015.

During the visit which attracted 200 people from Gbagblasso and the neighbouring villages of Yegole, Kanta, Soukourala, and Gouesesso, UNOCI representatives discussed the fundamentals of democracy, the management of conflicts, the respect of Ivorian laws, security and peace.



On his part, the Sub Prefect, Mr. Boly Djedje urged the villagers to build peace on a daily basis by acts of solidarity and tolerance which promote social cohesion. « I am here to serve you and do everything I can to make sure a lasting peace is restored in our village, in our hearts and in our families, » he said.



A spokesman for the village, Gomtou Toure expressed the feeling of pride felt by the population to see UNOCI in their area. He called on the inhabitants to get involved in activities which encourage the restoration of peace. « We have understood the importance of the UNOCI message and have made a commitment to work for the creation of a peaceful social environment along with the other communities of the region and in synergy with the local authorities, » he promised.

Gomtou Touré qui s'exprimait au nom des ressortissants village de Gbablasso 1 et 2, a témoigné le sentiment de fierté qui animaient les populations de voir l'ONUCI chez elles. Il a exhorté les habitants du village à s'impliquer dans des actions en vue d'encourager le retour de la paix. « Nous avons saisi la portée du message de l'ONUCI et nous prenons l'engagement à œuvrer avec toutes les communautés de la région et en synergie avec les autorités, à la création d'un environnement social apaisé », a-t-il promis.



The population seized the opportunity to request the local authorities for a water pump to ensure the provision of drinking water for the more than 4000 inhabitants.