Day of Families celebrated in Agboville, Cote d'Ivoire

Agboville, Côte d’Ivoire - The International Day of Families was commemorated in Agboville, a city 68 km from Abidjan, on May 15. Despite great political turmoil due to the repeatedly postponed presidential elections, it was decided to hold the Day of Families ceremony outside of the capital. The celebration took place at the city hall of Agboville. It was a moment to gather Ambassadors for Peace from the city.

The ceremony was under the patronage of the Agboville region’s Prefect, M. Al-Hassane, who was represented by his assistant. Many high-ranking people from the city attended, including the mayor, General Council representatives, and traditional chiefs and notables of the city, youth leaders, and women's association leaders. Three artists performed in celebration of peace and family.

After the welcoming address, the UPF secretary general explained the International Day of Families coupled with excerpts from the UN Secretary-General’s speech. He explained the meaning of marriage and family and read UPF's Declaration about the Family.

Then, couples who have been married for more than 25 years were called forward to receive family awards. Six couples were selected from among the many notable families in Agboville to receive the award. Recipients were joyfully surprised by their award and very grateful. Three of the honored couples were Ivorians and one each was selected from Burkina Faso, Benin, and Nigeria.

An elderly man from Burkina Faso was touched that he and his wife, who have been married 45 years, were chosen for this honor. "It's very good that this organization didn't distinguish between nationalities," he said. "I will promote your vision in the Burkina community here in Agboville. UPF can do much for peace in this city, where political leaders are all in conflict."

The local UPF president then introduced the local UPF board and programs. Seven new Ambassadors for Peace were nominated, including religious leaders, teachers, and women leaders. UPF president M. Gbocho Emmanuel explained the five principles of Ambassadors for Peace, stimulating much interest from participants.

To conclude the ceremony, the Prefect expressed appreciation for the national and local UPF staff who have been working for the past two years to resolve conflict. He promised increased support for UPF activities.

Distinguished participants were invited to the residence of the local UPF president for lunch and further sharing about the family.