September 2023 – Commemorating International Day of Peace: Seminar on ‘Peace and Sustainable Development (Challenges and Opportunities)

Commemorating International Day of Peace: Seminar on ‘Peace and Sustainable Development (Challenges and Opportunities)
The Sahel Foundation CC, based in Mauritania, collaborated with the URI Regional Office for North Africa and the Middle East to mark the International Day of Peace with a seminar titled “Peace and Sustainable Development (Challenges and Opportunities).” This significant event took place on the evening of Friday, September 22, 2023, in Nouadhibou.

The seminar commenced with a warm welcome from Mr. Yahya Daddah, the President of the Civil Society Platform, who underscored the Sahel Foundation CC’s dedication to organizing this remarkable event. He emphasized that this seminar represented a valuable addition to the ongoing efforts of the Sahel Foundation CC in promoting peace. Mr. Mohamed Fall, the Regional Coordinator of the Sahel Foundation CC, officially opened the seminar. He welcomed the attendees and emphasized that peace is a fundamental value that all individuals aspire to achieve in their lives and within their communities. Mr. Fall stressed that peace transcends the absence of conflicts and disputes, embodying a state of balance and harmony among individuals and society.
The seminar covered a wide array of topics. The first session focused on defining peace and the significance of fostering a culture of peace in society, featuring the insights of Mauritanian philosopher Mr. Mahfoudh Issa.
The second session delved into the role of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in promoting peace, with valuable input from expert Mr. Ahmed El-Hiba Al-Sheikh Maal Ainain. The discussion also examined the real-world application of the SDGs in Mauritania and their interconnectedness with peace.
The third session addressed the opportunities and challenges related to development in the Nouadhibou Free Zone region. It featured contributions from Mr. Sheikh Yahfoudh Aliatt, the General Manager of Development in the Nouadhibou Free Zone.

The fourth session explored the pivotal role of civil society in advancing the Sustainable Development Goals. It included a presentation by Mr. Ahmed Oudaah, the Director of Programming and Projects at the Civil Society Platform.
Lastly, the fifth session delved into the media’s role in achieving Sustainable Development, featuring insights from journalist Mr. Mohamed Soule.
The seminar attracted a distinguished gathering of professionals, intellectuals, and engaged individuals from Nouadhibou, including representatives from civil society, the media, bloggers, academics, and unionists.
The organization of the seminar on Peace and Sustainable Development was made possible through the collaboration between the Sahel Foundation CC and the URI Regional Office for North Africa and the Middle East.