Universal Peace Federation Africa banner with a map of Africa

This week from Universal Peace Federation Africa (UPF Africa): two September meetings with public institutions in West Africa. In Benin and Côte d'Ivoire, delegations explored how they might work together.

BENIN · OMBUDSMAN

Benin's Ombudsman and UPF discuss training and outreach

A UPF delegation stands with Benin's Ombudsman beside the national flag in Porto-Novo

In September 2026, a UPF delegation met Benin's Ombudsman, Conrad Gbaguidi, in Porto-Novo. They discussed training young people in northern Benin in conflict resolution and helping citizens understand how to approach his office.

The delegation also described a World Humanitarian Day activity on 19 August that assisted mothers and newborns unable to leave the Mother and Child Hospital over unpaid bills. Gbaguidi welcomed closer cooperation, UPF Benin reports; the report documents no signed agreement.

Report by UPF Benin.

CÔTE D’IVOIRE · DIALOGUE

UPF Côte d’Ivoire meets the solidarity minister

Members of the UPF Côte d'Ivoire delegation present their activity report beside the Ivorian flag

On 15 September 2026, a delegation of UPF Côte d’Ivoire met Minister of Solidarity and Social Cohesion Belmonde Dogo at her Cabinet office in Plateau to present its work and discuss cooperation. The contact began at a Women’s Federation anniversary at the National Library.

A UPF Côte d'Ivoire representative smiles as she speaks into a microphone at the meeting table, with two other participants beside her
Nine participants stand together for a group photo beside the Ivorian flag

According to the country report, Minister Dogo expressed interest and indicated she could attend some future activities if her schedule allowed. The delegation was put in contact with her Chief of Staff; no joint initiative, formal agreement or follow-up date is documented.

Report by UPF Côte d’Ivoire.

FROM OUR MEDIUM

Cover image of the UPF Africa Medium article on rising racism

Racism is rising again. Are world leaders ready to do more than talk?

By the time it turns violent, it has usually been normal for a while.

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This week on our channels

Coming up

  • Wed 11 Nov — Zambia marks the International Day of Peace

  • Thu 12 Nov — ECOWAS and youth volunteering for Dakar 2026

  • Fri 13 Nov — Invest in peace, from family to nation

  • Sat 14 Nov — This week at a glance

  • Sun 15 Nov — Which everyday action strengthens shared wellbeing?

Earlier this week

  • Mon 9 Nov — Young leaders and peace in Ghana

  • Tue 10 Nov — What can a survey help us understand?

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