In Bondoukou, Côte d’Ivoire, the departmental delegate for the National Youth Council of Côte d’Ivoire (CNJCI) for Bondoukou, Alexis Adjoumani Kouadio, recently called upon associative leaders and youth representatives to embrace a responsible approach to politics. This significant appeal took place during a capacity-building workshop held on Saturday, May 23, 2026, at the regional Youth Directorate headquarters within the locality.
The gathering, themed “Animating Associative Life and Youth Leadership in the Face of Politics: What Stance?”, aimed to cultivate a responsible youth population dedicated to peace and capable of upholding social cohesion amidst a sensitive sociopolitical climate.
Alexis Adjoumani Kouadio emphasized the integral role of organizations like the CNJCI, which are established to collaborate directly with the administration. He asserted that every leader must understand their responsibilities and demonstrate an exemplary attitude towards both the state and society. Kouadio further highlighted that youth organizations ought to serve as frameworks for civic guidance and act as key partners for public administration in fostering civility, dialogue, and harmonious coexistence.
Kouacou Désiré, the regional director for the Ministry of Youth Promotion, Professional Integration, and Civic Service in Gontougo, reiterated the critical need to train leaders who can effectively invigorate their associations while maintaining neutrality during political tensions.
“Simply being the president of an association is insufficient. It is crucial to bring your organization to life, unite young people, and undertake actions that genuinely benefit our communities,” he stated. Désiré clarified that the workshop also sought to enhance the capabilities of associative actors in areas such as responsible leadership, dialogue, organizational management, and strategies to prevent political manipulation within youth movements.
Representing the Prefect of the Gontougo region and the Prefect of Bondoukou department, Gnaihi Hugues commended the initiative. He noted its vital contribution to positioning youth as a true catalyst for social stability and development.
“Youth represents an invaluable asset for our nation. They must be a driving force for social cohesion, peace, and active civic participation,” Hugues affirmed, encouraging all participants to fully absorb the insights shared during the various presentations.
The workshop featured several impactful interventions, including a presentation on animating associative life by Jean Pierre Kouassi, a compelling testimony on associative commitment from Gla Serge, and a panel discussion on the appropriate stance of youth leaders towards politics, expertly led by Pascal Kouamé.
The official introduction of the local CNJCI office further enriched this important event, which drew a diverse attendance of youth presidents from various neighborhoods and villages, associative leaders, student representatives, and other stakeholders committed to promoting civism and community leadership across the Gontougo region.
