OUAGADOUGOU – The Ministry of Territorial Administration, Decentralization and Security (MATDS) held a public conference in Ouagadougou on Tuesday to advance peace and social cohesion in Burkina Faso’s Central region.

According to Burkina Information Agency, Minister of Territorial Administration, Decentralization and Security, the event is part of the 2nd edition of the Central Regional Living Together Week (SRVC), running from May 20 to 26, 2024. The theme of this year’s conference, “Strengthening Social Cohesion: A Guarantee of Restoration of Peace and Security,” reflects the region’s commitment to addressing the multidimensional crisis that has affected the nation-state since decolonization. Minister Zerbo highlighted the event as a crucial platform for dialogue and sharing experiences aimed at fostering a harmonious community.

The conference serves as a vehicle for implementing the fourth pillar of the Action Plan for the Stabilization and Development of the Transition, focusing on national reconciliation and social cohesion. Minister Zerbo and the governor of the Central region, Abdoulaye Bassinga, emphasized the urgency of unity and solidarity in overcoming the country’s complex humanitarian and security challenges.

Hassan Sawadogo, one of the speakers, stressed the importance of reclaiming indigenous values such as unity, solidarity, hospitality, and fraternity to rebuild the social fabric. The week-long initiative aims to promote inter- and intra-community cohesion as a foundation for national unity, in line with the national social cohesion strategy developed to guide all stakeholders in the country.