Poni: The Center for Research and Intervention in Gender and Development (CRIGED) and SOS Sahel International, with financial backing from the Global Community Engagement and Resilience Fund (GCERF), have officially launched two projects in Gaoua. These initiatives aim to bolster the resilience of communities against threats of violent extremism in the Dj´r´ and Tannounyan regions.
According to Burkina Information Agency, the launch ceremony was presided over by Robert Zougourana, Secretary General of the Dj´r´ region, who represented the Governor. The event took place in the meeting room of the Regional Council and was attended by administrative, military, religious, and customary authorities.
Mr. Zougourana, speaking on behalf of the governor, expressed gratitude to the initiators and partners of the initiative. He highlighted the significance of combating violent extremism, hate speech, and the erosion of the social fabric in Burkina Faso's current context. He praised the commitment of the consortia led by CRIGED and SOS Sahel International and assured them of the support from regional, traditional, and religious authorities in Dj´r´ to achieve tangible results for the local population. He also thanked the donor and stakeholders, emphasizing the need to promote social cohesion as a driver of sustainable development.
Dr. Millogo/Sorgho Marie Claire, chairwoman of the board of directors of CRIGED and spokesperson for the consortia, stated that the projects are a response to the social, cultural, and economic challenges faced by the country. She noted the urgency of addressing tensions that weaken social cohesion and the necessity of promoting peaceful coexistence. The projects aim to prevent violent extremism through awareness campaigns, civic education, and the promotion of socio-cultural values, focusing on empowering local men, women, and youth as community ambassadors for peace and resilience.
Issouf Ouattara, the national advisor of the GCERF in Burkina Faso, mentioned that the two consortia were selected from numerous proposals due to their field knowledge, experience, and the relevance of their solutions. He explained that GCERF's support is part of a co-construction, technical, and strategic assistance dynamic. The interventions will focus on consolidating social cohesion, strengthening resilience to violent extremism, and facilitating the socio-economic recovery of affected communities.
The two projects, with a total cost of 375,505,000 FCFA and a duration of two years, are being implemented by two consortia. The 'Resilience and Social Cohesion Programme for the Prevention of Violent Extremism' is led by CRIGED, in partnership with the Munyu Women's Association (AMF) and Solidarity and Development Action (ASD). The second project, named "Community Project to Combat Violent Extremism," is spearheaded by SOS Sahel International Burkina Faso, collaborating with the Munyu Women's Association and the TEN-TIETAA Association.