In line with its mandate to promote the reconciliation process, the UN Operation in Cote d'Ivoire (UNOCI) accompanied Ivorians in celebrating the National Peace Day in various parts of the country on Friday 15 November 2013.



In the village of Fodonithion, 540 km north of Abidjan, the head of an UNOCI delegation, accompanied by the NGO ''Grenier International'', urged the population to focus on finding peace at home, in the village and with neighbouring villages. He reminded them of the role of the UN Mission in the Ivorian peace process, and particularly in the district of Savanes.



Also speaking on the occasion, the President of ''Grenier International'', Ouattara Salimata called on the women and men of Fodonithion to promote the culture of peace and serve as an example to neighbouring villages.



Earlier, the spokesman of the village Chief, Tuo Kolotiona expressed the joy of the population in hosting the celebration and made a commitment

to remain on the path of peace which leads to sustainable development.



Representatives of UNOCI's Civil Affairs and Public Information offices as well as UN Police who were present at the celebration encouraged the people to adhere to the ideals of peace advocated by the UN throughout the world. The celebration was marked by folk songs and traditional dances.



Sport for peace in Tabou



In Tabou, 484 km south-west of Abidjan, a cross-country race organized by UNOCI and its partners such as the divisional department of Youth and Sport and local NGOs marked the occasion.



Defense and security forces, civil servants, cadres of the private sector, pupils and students demonstrated their commitment to the ongoing peace and reconciliation process by taking part in sporting activities. "{One

cannot make out who is who among you because you all represent a sampling of the population of Tabou with diverse occupations and of different ages. And that is what we expect of you: that each one at his or her own level should work for cohesion and lasting peace}," the head of the UNOCI delegation said.



According to the divisional youth and sport director, Theodore Zoumaboue Bi, the cross country race bringing together people of different ages, ethnic, religious and social backgrounds, has made the population understand the importance of peace.



A contest for the best peace message and a prize award ceremony was held during which UNOCI partners sensitised the population.

UNOCI provided security and medical assistance for the cross country race and distributed drinking water during the celebration.