Providing representatives of Toulepleu Federation of Women Associations with the skills to ensure their effective involvement in promoting social cohesion within their respective communities was the objective of a training programme organized in the western town by the United Nations Operation in Côte d'Ivoire (UNOCI) on Thursday, 23 April 2015.



The workshop was intended to raise awareness among the 120 women participants on their role as vectors of social cohesion, their rights and duties in protecting and promoting non-violence and managing micro-projects.



At the opening session, the Coordinator of the Office of the United Nations System in Toulepleu, Hélène Sylvie Zomahoun reaffirmed UNOCI's commitment to support any partner's initiative, including women, to participate in the final crisis-resolution process in Côte d'Ivoire.



"Women, we need your participation in peacebuilding efforts for sustainable development," she said, adding that women were a vital link in the promotion and respect of human rights.



For the Chief of Staff of the Prefect of Toulepleu, Théophile Coulibaly, UNOCI's actions should be encouraged. According to him the UN Mission was supporting various initiatives for the welfare of their department. He expressed his gratitude for the efforts made for the return of normality in Toulepleu.



"Last week we were in Diai to participate in an inter-community dialogue meeting. Earlier this week, it was the residents of Blolequin who benefited from your support through a panel discussion on challenges of social cohesion. Today Toulepleu women are being honoured through this capacity-building workshop. These numerous initiatives demonstrate your availability and your commitment to support us in building a strong Côte d'Ivoire," said Mr. Coulibaly.

The meeting included discussions, group work and practical exercises. Its main themes were: the impact of rumours on social cohesion; the role of women in strengthening social cohesion; the rights of women and children in relation to social cohesion; women's contribution in the fight against gender-based violence, associative management and income-generating activities.



As for the President of the Federation of women Associations of Toulepleu, Yvonne Tahi, she expressed the satisfaction of her institution for the actions being carried out by UNOCI.



"This workshop allowed us to learn a lot about the community life and the importance of greater social cohesion in the consolidation of peace. We promise you to put into practice the advice given to us during the meeting for the well-being of our federation, "she said.