In the Nigerien region of Maradi, a collaborative effort between administrative authorities, the Sultanate of Katsina, and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) has led to a training program aimed at promoting peace and social cohesion. The initiative, part of the "Social Cohesion and Sustainable Livelihoods for Forcibly Displaced Persons and Host Communities in Niger" project, was implemented by Good Neighbors Niger.
The training program, which took place in Madarounfa, focused on social cohesion and a culture of peace, with the theme emphasizing its importance to the future of the department and the nation. The program was co-funded by the UNHCR and the Korean International Cooperation Agency (KOICA). It sought to equip 200 young people from Madarounfa and Dan Issa communes with the skills to become ambassadors of peace.
Alhassane Moussa, UNHCR's representative in Maradi, who also covers the Diffa region, highlighted the significance of investing in youth to build more resilient societies. He emphasized that young people have a crucial role to play in promoting dialogue, solidarity, and rapprochement. Moussa encouraged the participants to make the most of the training and apply their new knowledge for the benefit of their families and communities.
The training program covered practical skills such as constructive conflict management, intercultural and intergenerational dialogue, and civic engagement. These skills are aimed at enhancing the participants' role in preventing tensions and promoting social cohesion. The initiative is part of a broader commitment to peace and social cohesion in the region.
The Sultan of Katsina, Ahmed Ali Zaki Marémawa, was acknowledged for his consistent support for peace, dialogue, solidarity, and social cohesion. The Prefect of Madarounfa, Djibérou Mohamadou, urged the young participants to actively contribute to consolidating peace and to resist divisive tendencies. He emphasized that the impact of the initiative would depend on their behavior and ability to promote unity.
A total of 200 young leaders participated in the training program, which concluded with the distribution of awareness-raising materials. The initiative aims to empower young people to become change-makers in their communities, promoting a culture of peace and social cohesion. The program is seen as a step towards building a more stable and prosperous future for the region.
The collaborative effort between the authorities, the Sultanate of Katsina, and the UNHCR reflects a shared commitment to promoting peace and social cohesion in Niger. By investing in the youth, the initiative seeks to create a more resilient and harmonious society. The program's success will depend on the continued engagement of the participants and their communities.
Key points
- The training program aimed to equip 200 young people with skills to promote peace and social cohesion in their communities.
- The initiative was co-funded by the UNHCR and the Korean International Cooperation Agency (KOICA).
- The program sought to empower young people to become ambassadors of peace and promote dialogue, solidarity, and rapprochement.
