As part of its sensitization campaign known as ONUCI Tour, the United Nations Operation in Côte d'Ivoire (UNOCI) held discussions on the culture of peace, social cohesion, protection of civilians and gender-based violence with 100 women, young people and traditional leaders in Tioro, a sub-prefecture situated some 570 km from Abidjan, on Friday, 15 January 2016.



The Head of the UNOCI delegation, Abdulai Baako of the Mission's Civil Affairs Division, explained the various activities of the UN Mission to promote ​​social cohesion and reconciliation in the area. He urged local people to work for the promotion of peaceful coexistence between the different communities.



The master of ceremony, the deputy prefect of Tioro, Raphael Yves Gauze, thanked the UN mission for its support to the Ivorian Government in its effort to reconcile Ivorians, strengthen peace and national unity - the keys to sustainable development.



Discussions between participants and UNOCI focused on collaboration between the local people and the security forces, the protection of civilians and the peaceful coexistence between the different communities.



In addition, the UN officials urged people to fight against gender-based violence, female genital mutilation and forced marriage.



After the discussion, the inhabitants of Tioro highlighted the need to settle the conflict between cattle breeders and farmers peacefully. They also asked the Mission to provide potable water in their locality and help motorcyclists respect customs procedures and avoid transporting banned products.



UNOCI's Public Information, Human Rights and Civil Affairs sections, as well as its Customs Unit and UN Police took part in the discussion and information session.