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

Bondoukou — In a call for civic maturity and structured involvement in public affairs, the National Council of Youth of Côte d’Ivoire (CNJCI) in Bondoukou hosted an intensive capacity-building workshop for local youth leaders and community organizers. The event, held on Saturday, May 23, 2026, at the regional office of the Ministry of Youth, focused on fostering responsible leadership amid a complex sociopolitical climate.

Building a framework for responsible youth leadership

The workshop, themed “Engaging Youth Associations and Leaders in Politics: What Responsible Posture?”, drew over 80 participants, including presidents of local youth associations, student representatives, and civic engagement advocates from across the Gontougo region. The goal was clear: to equip young leaders with the tools to promote peace, social cohesion, and constructive dialogue while maintaining neutrality in politically charged environments.

Core messages from key speakers

Alexis Adjoumani Kouadio, departmental delegate of the CNJCI in Bondoukou, emphasized the role of youth organizations as essential bridges between civil society and public administration. “Our mission is not just to mobilize,” he stated. “It is to instill a culture of responsibility, accountability, and exemplary conduct toward both the state and the communities we serve.”

Kouacou Désiré, Regional Director of the Ministry of Youth, Vocational Integration, and Civic Service in Gontougo, reinforced this perspective. “Leading an association is more than occupying a title,” he said. “It means breathing life into the organization, uniting young people, and driving initiatives that foster tangible community development.” He also stressed the importance of preventing political manipulation within youth movements and cultivating leadership grounded in dialogue and organizational best practices.

From theory to action: strengthening civic engagement

The event featured dynamic sessions led by prominent figures in the field. Jean Pierre Kouassi led a session on the operational dynamics of youth associations, while Gla Serge shared a powerful account of grassroots civic engagement. A panel discussion, moderated by Pascal Kouamé, explored the delicate balance youth leaders must strike between political awareness and civic duty.

The highlight of the workshop was the official presentation of the newly formed local bureau of the CNJCI in Bondoukou. This milestone underscores the growing momentum among young Ivorians to take ownership of their role as architects of social stability and progress.

A regional call to action

Representing the regional prefecture, Gnaihi Hugues commended the initiative, calling youth “an invaluable asset to our nation.” He urged participants to internalize the lessons shared and translate them into sustained community impact. “The future of Côte d’Ivoire depends on a youth that is united, informed, and committed to building a peaceful and prosperous society,” he declared.

The workshop concluded with a renewed commitment from attendees to champion responsible leadership, enhance organizational effectiveness, and uphold the values of civic engagement across the Gontougo region.