On Thursday, 22 August 2013, the people of Bouna made new resolutions on supporting social cohesion and development in their region. This was done at the end of a workshop on intercommunity dialogue initiated by the Civil Affairs Section of the United Nations Operation in Côte d'Ivoire (UNOCI).



King Djarakoroni II of Bouna, several members of the local authorities of the region and some 40 participants, including community leaders, women's associations and youth groups took part in the workshop on "Intercommunity Dialogue in Bouna".



"Your participation in this workshop will provide you with the tools to resolve conflicts in Bounkani," said the deputy prefect, who expressed the hope that the resolutions made during the workshop would be duplicated and implemented at all levels.



UNOCI's Regional Coordinator in Bondoukou, Rigué Prosper, shared this view, while stressing the importance of the population's commitment to peace.



At the end of the discussions, participants made several resolutions which included their commitment to using inter-ethnic alliances to peacefully resolve conflicts, respect for human rights; the involvement of everyone in the decision-making process, sensitization of local businesses in the creation of cooperatives, sensitization of officials on the importance of supporting local development, tolerance and reconciliation.



Speaking during the workshop, Annita Traoré from UNOCI's Civil Affairs Section highlighted the inclusive action undertaken with women, youths, traditional chiefs and religious leaders to promote social cohesion and development in Bounkani region.



Joseph Noubadoum from UNOCI's Human Rights Division also sensitized participants on the principles of mutual respect, equality and non-discrimination.