The UN Operation in Cote d'Ivoire (UNOCI) on Tuesday 4 March 2014 organised an information and training session for some 20 members of the Union of Youths of Adzope Municipality on the peaceful resolution of conflicts.



UNOCI Civil Affairs representative, Mrs. Taiyou Njende educated the youths to understand conflict, identify its causes and to adopt a positive attitude. She proceeded to present the different methods of conflict resolution and types of intervention. They also examined the ill effects of conflicts.

Mrs. Njende called on participants to play their role in the peaceful management of conflicts and especially in the maintenance of social cohesion which involves respect of human rights, the proper treatment of rumours, dialogue and confidence. Everyone must get involved in the prevention and peaceful resolution of conflicts, she concluded.

Earlier, the UN delegation educated the youths on the role and activities of UNOCI, especially the UN Police, the Public Information and Civil Affairs Offices in the field. UNPOL Commissioner, François Gnanho explained UNOCI's role in protecting civilians without distinction and to assist and advise the local security forces through the building of their capacity.

Daoudou Dosso of the Public Information Office presented the role of the office which he said consisted in informing the population on the implementation of UNOCI's mandate and progress made in the peace and reconciliation process in the country.



Civil Affairs representative, Mrs. Njende spoke of the role of her office in restoring state authority, social cohesion and reconciliation.

The session ended with an evaluation exercise and a call for the proper management of conflicts.