UNOCI organised a cultural and sporting event for the young people in Kong, situated 740 km north of Abidjan, on Saturday, 8 June 2013. The aim was to encourage them to become involved in promoting social cohesion and the national reconciliation process.



The Prefect of the Department of Kong, Mamadou Kamara, urged the different communities to live on good terms with one another. "When there is peace and understanding, great projects can be accomplished," he said.



One participant in the women's race, Mrs. Konaté Manasa said the women were contributing to peace and reconciliation through several women's associations which promote unity, the respect of the dignity of women and development.



For his part, the youth leader of Kong, Mamadou Diawara said sport provided a forum for bringing the youths together and called on his peers to cultivate the spirit of dialogue to resolve their differences.



The event was marked by maracana football matches, a cross country race and folk dances.