BBN - STRENGTHENING SOCIAL COHESION IN OUAKÉ: The "Sourou" network is born

A new network of women leaders, called « Sourou », was born in Ouaké following a training course organized by the FND ONG – Gandjaanon ONG consortium. This consortium, funded by the Canadian Fund for Local Initiatives (CFLI) of the Canadian Embassy in Benin, is continuing its actions to network peace clubs in the intervention municipalities. The three-day training workshop (from November 15 to 17, 2024) was held in the conference room of Ouaké City Hall. It brought together 30 participants, including 6 men and 24 women from the peace clubs created in the six districts of the municipality.

Strengthening the capacities of peace actors The main objective of this workshop was to strengthen the capacities of peace club members on various themes related to peace and social cohesion, such as negotiation techniques, advocacy, peaceful conflict management, leadership and networking.

Using an interactive approach, the trainer, BALOGOUN Oladokoun Salomon, promoted learning by using films, practical exercises and group discussions. He stressed the importance of involving everyone, regardless of their origin, to solve problems within the community.

Election of a bureau and future prospects At the end of the training, the participants elected a bureau of nine members, composed of five women and four men. Arikè LASSISSI, from Badjoudè, was elected coordinator.

The Project Manager, Mr. ASSOGBA K. G. Stévenson, congratulated the newly elected officials and gave them equipment to help them carry out their missions. The coordinator, Arikè LASSISSI, pledged to implement the knowledge acquired and to promote peace and social cohesion in the commune of Ouaké.

A project that brings hope This project, supported by the Canadian Fund for Local Initiatives, aims to promote peace, social cohesion and the role of women leaders in community development. The Sourou network is called upon to play a key role in achieving these objectives.