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The CDJS at FIJAO to promote peace and social cohesion

Youth, African integration and security challenges The CDJS at FIJAO to promote peace and social cohesion Africa, particularly in the sub-Saharan region, faces enormous geographical and geopolitical challenges that significantly impact its development and the integration of its peoples. The need to work towards improving people’s living conditions requires sustained commitment from all stakeholders and a concerted effort to overcome current difficulties. Aware of the need to contribute to a more peaceful political and social climate, young people from several African countries gathered on 20 May in Ouagadougou for a forum aimed at raising awareness amongst this section of the population about their role in the fight against insecurity and terrorism. The International Forum of African Youth in Ouagadougou (FIJAO) aims to provide a platform not only to promote the values of solidarity, mutual aid and social cohesion amongst communities, but also to highlight the role young people play in the process of peace and integration between peoples. The ECOWAS Centre for Youth and Sports Development, in line with its policy of promoting youth skills, took part in this event. Its ambition is to act as a sub-regional player in supporting young people to create and strengthen frameworks for fostering a culture of peace, civic-mindedness and volunteering – all of which are essential factors in addressing contemporary challenges. It provided an opportunity for the Centre to explain to participants the significance of its programmes in promoting shared values. These programmes relate to volunteering, sport and youth. #cdjs #ecowas #cedeao