Adjamè is a small town near Abidjan (the Capital of Ivory Coast), sadly notorious for being the scene of continuous episodes of urban violence, which became even more frequent in the crisis after the elections in the last few months, when tensions broke out the Country.

The conference, summoned by the Community of Sant’Egidio of Abidjan for 8th October, was given the title “The experience of friendship of the Community of Sant’Egidio as a model for reconciliation”. It took place in the fire station and was addressed to the local people, more particularly to the youngest, of the St Michel neighborhood.

The conference was in line with the entire Community's ongoing commitment for peace and against violence.  

In addition to the military officers of the fire station and their families, also a hundred young people of the neighborhood were present at the meeting.

The Community of Sant’Egidio is present in Adjamè with a School for Peace for street children and youth, and is also taking care of the beggars. This engagement is an example of how it is possible to fight against violence and for reconciliation.

During the meeting the video “The spirit of Assisi” was projected, wishing that this spirit may live on and grow in Abidjan and other cities of Ivory Coast, because “searching for peace is learning to live together” as one of the witnesses said in his speech.

Agenda  

9h00 – 9h 45: Projection of “The spirit of Assisi”
9h45 – 11h 00: Testimonies and speeches
Digbeu Nahounou Patrick: « Forgiving whoever does evil »
Nianzou Kousso Rose Delaure: « To tolerate and serve »
Fofana Alassane: « Peace is loving to live together »
Irié Mauricette: « May God watch over the Community of Sant'Egidio and put joy, peace and love in everyone's heart »
11h 00 – 11h30: group sharing
11h30 – 12h: refreshments