The women of Troya, a locality situated at 570 km northwest of Abidjan, on 17 December 2014, welcomed the United Nations Operation in Côte d'Ivoire (UNOCI), the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and the Ivorian Ministry of Health and the Fight Against HIV/AIDS. Preserving a peace ful electoral environment, infant and maternal health and the fight against diseases were discussed during the meeting.



Speaking during the session, Pierre Aby from UNOCI's Public Information Office in Guiglo reiterated the importance of ensuring that forthcoming elections are free and inclusive. « You should be free to chose which candidate you support and want elected. At the same time you should not prevent anyone from voting for the candidate of their choice, » he said.



For her part, Abiba Ouattara, an expert in gender-based violence (GBV) with the UNFPA, highlighted the consequences of pregnant women not receiving medical treatment they should have. « In Côte d'Ivoire, 20 women die everyday while giving birth. These women unfortunately do observe the rules which say they should have at least four prenatal visits before giving birth, » she said. She then urged mother to ensure that they talk about sex with the daughters because this could help reduce the rate of early pregnancies.



Karim Tehioub of the United Nations Police (UNPOL), urged participants to collaborate with their traditional leaders with regard to security. « Don't hide anything from the village chief, such as information on rape because this could contribute to helping those who commit such acts to escape justice ».



Raoul Bi Goulizan Zohou, HIV/AIDS adviser at the health centre in Zagné, highlighted the gravity of the pandemic of Ebola Virus Disease. « I urge you to avoid eating bush meat. You must follow the Government's advice on this issue and wash your hands regularly, » he told participants.



The president of the women's association, Simone Nioba Ouloubly, said that social cohesion in Troya was good. « We, the women, live in perfect harmony, whatever our origin, » she added.