Côte d’Ivoire: African Integration / The Gbêkê Region hosts the 7th edition of the “Community Days.

This past weekend, Nigerian Community in Côte d’Ivoire under the leadership of Chief Micheal Emeka Onwuchelu participated in the 7th edition of African Integration/ Community Days at Bouaké in the Gbêkê Region of Côte d’Ivoire, a celebration aimed at fostering regional integration and cultural exchange among the diverse foreign communities living in Côte d’Ivoire. This initiative aligns with Côte d’Ivoire’s ongoing commitment to regional integration as a tool for development.

Event Highlights:

The event, organized by the Ivorian Office for the Promotion of African Integration (BIPIA), featured a series of activities designed to promote cultural interaction and unity. The opening ceremony took place on Friday, July 19, 2024, at KAMONIKRO field, under the High Patronage of His Excellency Mr. Amadou Koné, Minister of Transport and Mayor of Bouaké.

Key Activities:

Maracana Football Tournament:
The tournament featured ten teams from ECOWAS countries, including Côte d’Ivoire, Guinea, Togo, Burkina Faso, Niger, Nigeria, Mali, Benin, Senegal, and Ghana. Ghana emerged victorious in a thrilling final, winning 3-2 on penalties against Guinea after a 2-2 draw in regular time.
Traditional Wrestling:
This event saw participants from Niger, Cameroon, Côte d’Ivoire, Guinea, Ghana, Chad, Burkina Faso, and Mali. The final was an all-Ivorian match, with Youssouf clinching the champion title against Yaya.
Blood Donation Drive:
The National Blood Transfusion Center (CNTS) of Bouaké led a successful blood donation campaign, managed by Mrs. Kouassi Akissi Antoinette Meir, with oversight from Mrs. Koné Mariame.

Statements and Acknowledgments:

Mr. Goli Louis Philippe, Director of Cabinet, praised the organizers for their efforts in making the day special and urged the community to uphold unity, solidarity, and peace for a successful integration. Dr. Moussa Mama, Director General of BIPIA, emphasized the importance of African integration and expressed gratitude to Mr. Abdoul Diarra Aziz, President of the ECOWAS Nationals in Bouaké, Mr. Sekou Kaba, President of UREM CEDEAO, Chief Michel Emeka Onwuchelu, President Nigerian Community in Cote d’Ivoire and all partners for their support.

Conclusion:

The event concluded with family photo sessions, marking a successful first day of activities.