Yaadga: As part of the implementation of the Peace and Development for Displaced Persons and Vulnerable Hosts (PADEP) project, a regional conference was organized to identify and promote endogenous mechanisms and practices for conflict management. The event, held on Friday, May 8, aimed to benefit several actors in the Yaadga region.
According to Burkina Information Agency, the conference was facilitated by PADEP with support from BMZ to address the exacerbation of factors linked to the massive displacement of populations, which threaten social cohesion and harmony. The gathering provided a framework for local actors to reflect and identify indigenous practices and mechanisms for preventing and resolving conflicts in the region.
The event, under the auspices of the National Federation of Naam Groups (FNGN), was welcomed by Secretary General Hamidou Ganam©, representing the Federation's President. Ganam© emphasized the importance of looking within the community for lasting conflict solutions, highlighting the role of elders, traditional chiefs, and wise men in fostering dialogue.
Albert Zongo, Secretary General of the Yaadga Kuilga Region (SGR), speaking on behalf of the governor, praised the commitment of organizers and participants to resolving conflicts through local mechanisms. He also encouraged stakeholders to engage in open, respectful, and responsible discussions during the conference.
The conference was led by B©lem Halidou and Ou©draogo Boureima, with assistance from Koritimi Kabor©/Wangr©, the permanent secretary of the national observatory for community conflict management. They discussed endogenous mechanisms, customary practices, and potential initiatives to enhance conflict management practices in the Yaadga region.
Participants concluded the conference by identifying peaceful conflict management mechanisms and committing to spreading awareness of known endogenous practices and mechanisms in Yaadga.
The FNGN, in partnership with the NGO Help/Burkina, gathered around one hundred participants, including customary and religious leaders, land chiefs, peace ambassadors, youth and women's organizations, and members of the regional public administration.