Gbomblora:The Association of Women in the Mining Sector of Burkina Faso (AFEMIB) recently conducted a workshop on non-violent conflict management at the Gbomblora town hall. Held on November 5 and 6, 2026, the event aimed to enhance conflict prevention mechanisms in mining areas by engaging key stakeholders from the commune.
According to Burkina Information Agency, the workshop was supported technically and financially by the Project to Support the Strengthening of Land and Mine Management (PAGFM). It focused on strategies for preventing and peacefully resolving disputes, such as active listening, negotiation, and dialogue.
AFEMIB President Annonciata Thombiano highlighted that conflicts in mining regions often revolve around land access, natural resource exploitation, environmental issues, and economic benefit distribution. She emphasized the importance of involving women and youth in prevention, mediation, and decision-making processes due to their close ties to community dynamics.
Attendees were also educated on Burkina Faso's mining sector regulations, including the 2024 Mining Code. Romain Zoungrana, president of the special delegation of the Gbomblora commune, remarked that the training is timely for a commune with multiple gold mining sites. He believes the acquired knowledge will aid local stakeholders in better preventing and managing conflicts, thus preserving peace and social cohesion.
Ini Kindora Hien, the women's coordinator in the commune, expressed satisfaction with the training outcomes, especially regarding women's rights and their role in conflict prevention and resolution. She advocated for increased inclusion of women in consultation and decision-making platforms.
Fabrice Coco Kambou, president of the youth, valued the insights gained, asserting they would help participants contribute to resolving community conflicts. He encouraged participants to apply their knowledge to combat all forms of violence.
The event underscored the importance of prioritizing dialogue over confrontation, listening before judging, and seeking collaborative solutions to reinforce social cohesion within communities.