Adzopé, 21 December 2009... The United Nations Operation in Côte d'Ivoire (UNOCI), on Saturday, organized a Christmas party for 150 Ivorian children in Adzopé stadium.

UNOCI's Public Information Officer, Marius Bokpaka, urged the children, whom he described as the "future of Côte d'Ivoire", to be torch bearers of peace and non violence in their respective families and at school, as well as peace messengers in the communities.

"Children have small eyes and small mouths but they know how to look at us and talk to us. They want to be happy and grow up in a secure environment. Please let us help them realize their dream" said Priest Hounyowi Christ Emmanuel from the parish of Sainte Marie, Notre Dame de l'Amitié, who organized the ceremony in partnership with UNOCI.

Speaking on behalf of the General Council in Adzopé, Ehui Pierre asked the populations in his locality to help UNOCI help them resolve the crisis in Côte d'Ivoire.

The Jordanian battalion donated school kits and clothes to the 150 children. The Christmas Party was preceded by a football match between Christian youths in the parish.