On Saturday, October 4, 2025, the city of Bonoua hosted the official launch ceremony of the #YouthDialogues series, an event dedicated to promoting peace and social harmony. The initiative is part of the “Young Champions of Peace” project, led by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and funded by the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Côte d’Ivoire.

His Excellency Ambassador Jeroen Kelderhuis graced the ceremony with his presence, reaffirming his country’s commitment to supporting Ivorian youth and peacebuilding efforts across the nation.

The “Young Champions of Peace” project aims to mobilize young people from political parties around constructive, inclusive, and peaceful dialogue, fostering responsible and civic-minded political engagement. Fifteen Ivorian localities will take part in these exchanges, which seek to promote a political culture based on tolerance, dialogue, and national cohesion.

In his remarks, Ambassador Jeroen Kelderhuis commended the enthusiasm, commitment, and dedication of the young participants, describing them as key drivers of change. He emphasized their essential role in preserving stability and shaping a peaceful future for Côte d’Ivoire.

The ceremony took place in the presence of Ms. Blerta Cela, UNDP Resident Representative in Côte d’Ivoire, the Representative of the Mayor of Bonoua, and the Sub-Prefect of Bonoua.

Held in an atmosphere of peace, sincerity, and conviviality, the event reflected the shared commitment of all partners and participants to building a united and peaceful Côte d’Ivoire.

The launch of this dialogue series marks an important milestone in peace consolidation through the active participation of young people — the true driving force of a stable and forward-looking nation.