Nov. 2014—Recurrent clashes in Guinea’s forests have become a deep source of concern. Home to 25 percent of the country’s population and the majority of its extractive wealth, the region is marked by high levels of unemployment and poverty, ethnic division and a history of conflict imported from neighboring countries. Hundreds have been killed and thousands displaced in recent violence.

Through the Rebuilding Together: Community Driven Reconciliation in Guinea Forestière project, USAID has worked to foster peace among members of different ethnic groups residing in this region, particularly the Konian and Guerze people.

Recently, a contest was held among a group of community members gathered in the city of Nzérékoré in the Forest Region of Guinea. Three requests were asked of all present. “Tell us what peace means to you, provide a peaceful message, and sing it to the whole group.”

Six-year-old Fatim Camara was in the audience with her sisters and friends. She raised her hand. The facilitator, amazed, handed her the microphone.

According to Fatim, peace means: to live together without violence. Her message was, “Konian and Guerze, let us make peace! There is nothing better than peace! If you get along, you will be able to take care of us, the children, and provide us a better future without conflict.”

Fatim then sang, “People of the forest, let us get along. We are one!”

Through USAID implementing partner Search for Common Ground, this project trained community members throughout the Forest Region to mediate conflicts and reach agreement on disputes together. The project also worked with rural and community radio stations to disseminate messages of tolerance, reconciliation and community cohesion through news and drama programs widely followed by marginalized communities and those vulnerable to conflict.

The 18-month project, which ended in March of this year, has received wide popular support from the community. Members from both sides of conflicting groups, including village elders and youth, have heeded USAID’s call to publicly renounce violence and seek peaceful solutions to disagreements.

Fatim’s message is powerful. It demonstrates that children suffer due to the conflict in the area. But it also shows that the value of peace can be instilled at an early age. Fatim’s message—stark, relevant and clear—was awarded first prize. 

LINKS

Follow @USAIDGuinea, on Facebook, on Flickr