UNOCI donates a centre for women and vulnerable children in Danane

"{The last Resolution 2112 adopted on 30 July 2013 by the UN Security Council puts particular emphasis on the protection of civilians, especially women and children - it was for this reason that UNOCI did not hesitate to support this work to improve the lives of women and children in in Danane}". These were the words of the representative of the Human Rights Division of the United Nations Operation in Côte d'Ivoire at the inauguration of a centre for women and vulnerable children in Danane on Friday, 27 September 2013.

The centre, which was built and equipped by the UN Mission at a cost of 11,804,100 F CFA as part of the Mission's Quick Impact Projects (QIPS) programme, was handed over to the Women's'Association of Kouadi - Kouadi means "let's reconcile" in the local Dan language - in the Houphouët neighbourhood of this town situated 650 km northwest of Abidjan.

The inauguration ceremony was attended by members of the local administrative and military authorities, religious and traditional leaders, numerous members of women's association based in Danane, as well as a UNOCI delegation comprising personnel based in Man and Duekoue.

"{Mothers of Danane, this centre is yours, meet here as often as you like to discuss your problems, work together for your benefit. Never forget that it is only by being united that you can win. Please ensure that this coordination centre welcomes everyone who asks for your help. The situation of women in Danane depends on you and what you can do with this centre}", the head of the UNOCI delegation told beneficiaries.

The representative of the Prefect of Danane, Adou Jean-Baptiste expressed the hope that the women will work with others to contribute to the development of the district.

Speaking on behalf of a network of some 70 women's associations, the Coordinator of the Women's Association of Kouadi, Eugénie Gueu Oukapeu, thanked UNOCI for providing them with the centre. "{On behalf of myself and my sisters, I would like to express my sincere thanks to the Special Representative of the United Nations Secretary-General in Côte d'Ivoire and all her personnel who made it possible for women in the district of Danané to see a new dawn}," she said. She then called on her sisters in the region and in the Mano River area to wisely use the meeting place for women and share their experiences with each other in order to improve their lives. "{Let's get over our differences and build positively for our dear Côte d'Ivoire and West Africa}", she concluded.

The new centre comprises two buildings which are equipped with a computer for administrative work and sewing machines to train women.