The "Flame of Peace" tour, an initiative aimed at promoting peace and reconciliation in Casamance, Senegal, is set to continue its journey in the regions of Sedhiou and Kolda. From December 18-23, 2026, the tour will engage local populations in various activities, fostering a message of forgiveness, unity, and peaceful coexistence. This effort is part of a broader process of consolidating peace in Casamance, a region that has experienced conflict for decades.
The tour's schedule includes a range of events, such as a "Diambadong" dance performance, a peace caravan, and a hiking excursion in Sedhiou. Additionally, a Supercup for peace in Casamance and a symposium on the challenges and prospects of achieving lasting peace are planned. In Kolda, the Flame of Peace will be presented to the public, accompanied by a traditional wrestling ceremony. These events will bring together official delegations from Gambia, Senegal, and Guinea-Bissau, underscoring the subregional dimension of this peace initiative.
According to Henry Ndecky, coordinator of the Coalition of Civil Society Organizations for Peace in Casamance (COSCPAC), the success of this tour relies on the commitment of all communities involved. He urged the people of Sedhiou and Kolda to warmly welcome the Flame of Peace, following its previous stop in the Ziguinchor region. Ndecky emphasized that this initiative builds on the momentum of the peace process launched on May 13, 2023, which saw the disarmament of the Diakaye faction and the demobilization of 255 fighters from the Movement of Democratic Forces of Casamance (MFDC).
The "Flame of Peace" tour is designed to amplify the voices of local populations, particularly in regions heavily affected by the conflict. Mamadou Lamine Sadio, president of the Sedhiou regional committee for the Flame, reported that defense and security forces, local authorities, and community leaders have been actively engaged in the mobilization efforts. Cheikh Tidiane Cissé, coordinator of the MALAO, noted that the tour will provide a platform for the people of Sedhiou and Kolda to express their concerns and aspirations.
Beyond the ceremonial and popular events, the initiators of the Flame of Peace aim to promote a culture of forgiveness, national cohesion, and reconciliation. By engaging local populations and promoting a message of peace, the tour seeks to contribute to the definitive resolution of the Casamance conflict. This initiative has already garnered support from various stakeholders, including civil society organizations and local authorities.
The "Flame of Peace" tour is expected to conclude its journey with a presentation to President of the Republic and the Senegalese people. This final stage will underscore the significance of this peace initiative and its implications for the entire nation. By involving local communities and fostering a sense of ownership, the tour aims to create a lasting impact and pave the way for sustainable peace in Casamance.
Key stakeholders, including government officials, civil society representatives, and community leaders, will continue to support and monitor the progress of the "Flame of Peace" tour. As the tour reaches its final stages, its impact on promoting peace and reconciliation in Casamance will be closely watched.
Key points
- The "Flame of Peace" tour aims to promote peace, reconciliation, and forgiveness in Casamance, Senegal.
- The tour will engage local populations in Sedhiou and Kolda through various activities and events.
- The initiative builds on the momentum of the peace process launched in May 2023.
