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2015 was a busy year for Search – Côte d’Ivoire. We created programs to close the gender gap in political participation and empower women. We produced and broadcasted shows to shift cultural attitudes towards nonviolence. In schools, we worked with teenage students, giving them an alternative to violent groups and turning them into ambassadors for peace.
Our work made a difference. It promoted social cohesion and stability. It defused tensions. It gave a chance to marginalized groups to have their voices heard and be included in the peace process. That is why, on Monday February 15th 2016, the Government of Côte d’Ivoire awarded us with the Prize of Excellency.
Search – Côte d’Ivoire Director Quentin Kanyatsi (left) and COGID’s President Jean-Paul Ouraga (right) with the Minister of African Integration Ally Coulibaly (center).
The Prize was established by President Ouattara to highlight the work of local and international organizations in the country. We were awarded first place by the Minister of the African Integration. He praised our efforts to promote cohesion and stability, emphasizing how the Common Ground Approach is helping communities come together. COGID, an organization working on the Ivorian diaspora, received an award for their work outside of the country.
The global Search family would like to take this opportunity to thank our colleagues in Côte d’Ivoire for their dedication, creativity, and enthusiasm. It is because of them and their partners that generations of young Ivorians are uniting to build a future where violence has no place. Congratulations!
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