Côte d’Ivoire youth leaders urged to embrace responsible political engagement

Bondoukou — In a move to foster civic responsibility among young leaders, the regional council of youth in Côte d’Ivoire organized a capacity-building workshop in Bondoukou over the weekend. The event brought together association heads, student representatives, and community leaders to discuss the role of youth in shaping the nation’s political landscape.

Building responsible youth leadership in a politically sensitive climate

The training session, themed “Youth associations and leadership in politics: what stance to adopt?”, aimed to equip young leaders with the skills needed to promote peace and social cohesion in Côte d’Ivoire. Held on May 23, 2026, at the regional youth directorate in Bondoukou, the workshop emphasized the importance of neutrality and constructive engagement in public affairs.

Key takeaways from the workshop

Alexis Adjoumani Kouadio, the local delegate of the National Youth Council of Côte d’Ivoire (CNJCI), underscored the need for youth organizations to maintain a balance between activism and political detachment. “These structures exist to collaborate with government agencies, but leaders must uphold exemplary conduct towards both the state and society,” he stated.

Kouadio highlighted that youth groups should serve as pillars of civic education, fostering dialogue and peaceful coexistence rather than divisive rhetoric. “Our role is to guide young people, ensuring they contribute meaningfully to national development without being swayed by political manipulations,” he added.

Regional officials echo the call for responsible leadership

Kouacou Désiré, the regional director of Youth Promotion, Vocational Integration, and Civic Service for the Gontougo region, reinforced the message by stressing the need for dynamic leadership. “Being an association president is not enough. True leadership involves energizing teams, uniting youth, and driving initiatives that benefit our communities,” he explained.

The workshop also focused on practical skills, including organizational management, conflict prevention, and responsible advocacy. Participants engaged in panel discussions and expert-led sessions, including a presentation by Jean Pierre Kouassi on association management and a testimonial from Gla Serge on grassroots activism.

Pascal Kouamé led a panel on navigating political pressures, urging youth leaders to prioritize national stability over partisan interests. The event concluded with the formal launch of the CNJCI’s local chapter in Bondoukou, attended by prefectural authorities and community stakeholders.

A shared vision for Côte d’Ivoire’s future

Gnaihi Hugues, representing the regional prefect of Gontougo, praised the initiative for empowering youth to become agents of social cohesion. “The youth are an invaluable asset to our nation. They must lead the way in building peace, fostering unity, and advancing collective progress,” he remarked.

The workshop attracted a diverse audience, including neighborhood youth leaders, association heads, student representatives, and civic engagement advocates from across the Gontougo region.