A dialogue forum between farmers and herders in the Bouko sub-prefecture concluded on Friday, aiming to strengthen social cohesion and reduce agro-pastoral conflicts in northern Côte d’Ivoire. The meeting brought together administrative and customary authorities, community leaders, and local stakeholders.
Chaired by the sub-prefect of Bouko, Jean Michel Agba, the forum was organised under the Strengthening Resilience in Northern Côte d’Ivoire (ProRES) project, funded by Germany’s Federal Ministry of Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) and implemented by the German Cooperation Agency GIZ.
The initiative operates under the supervision of the Ministry of Agriculture, Rural Development and Food Production, and seeks to enhance socio-economic resilience among youth and communities through dialogue and conflict prevention.
During the discussions, participants highlighted the main sources of recurring tensions between farmers and herders. Key issues included the management of livestock passage corridors, the demarcation of agricultural fields, stray herds, and the growing scarcity of natural resources. Stakeholders agreed that structured social dialogue is essential to preventing disputes and promoting peaceful coexistence.
The forum concluded with concrete proposals and joint recommendations designed to prioritise peace, tolerance, and community cohesion. Participants emphasised translating these resolutions into practical actions on the ground to ensure lasting impact.
Sub-Prefect Agba welcomed the initiative, describing it as “an appropriate response to the challenges of peaceful coexistence between communities.” He urged all parties to implement the forum’s resolutions, stressing that local commitment is key to consolidating the gains achieved through dialogue.
The Bouko forum is part of a broader national strategy to mitigate agro-pastoral conflicts, which have historically posed threats to livelihoods and security in northern Côte d’Ivoire. By fostering direct communication and mutual understanding, the project aims to create a sustainable framework for cooperation between farmers and herders, contributing to long-term social stability in the region.
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