Coastal West Africa is grappling with escalating threats to peace and stability, as conflicts from the Sahel region spill over and violent extremist groups have gain traction. In response, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) convened the International Dialogue on Peacebuilding and Statebuilding (IDPS) Regional Dialogue on Prevention, Peacebuilding, and Resilience in Coastal West Africa. 

This critical gathering brought together experts and stakeholders to examine current and emerging trends in the region and seek sustainable solutions to these pressing existential threats, paving the way for a more peaceful and resilient future.

During the 2-day regional dialogue, participants including key government representatives, development partners, civil society, regional organizations, and the private sector, shared lessons learned from their diverse experiences and contexts within Coastal West Africa.

Discussions covered topics such as local prevention and peacebuilding strategies, violent extremism, community resilience, youth involvement, climate security, gender-inclusive peacebuilding, and financing resilience initiatives. The exchange of insights provided a valuable opportunity to identify common challenges, innovative approaches, and successful interventions in prevention efforts across the region.

“Coastal West Africa, once a beacon of resilience, now faces mounting threats to its peace and stability. The spillover of conflict from the Sahel and the rise of violent extremist groups demands urgent cross-country dialogue to seek lasting solutions to this existential threat,” said Geoffrey Dean, Director, Conflict Prevention, Stabilization and Peacebuilding (IRZ), Global Affairs Canada and IDPS Co-Chair Representative.

Emphasizing the need to navigate the complexities of Coastal West Africa, Sukhrob Khoshmukhamedov, Deputy Resident Representative, UNDP Ghana, underscored the importance of sharing lessons learned from diverse experiences and contexts.

"In the midst of intersecting crises, violent conflict emerges as a pervasive global force, disproportionately impacting the most vulnerable populations. Through innovative partnerships and collective action, we can pave the way for a just and peaceful world. Let this dialogue serve as a beacon of collaboration, guiding coastal West Africa and beyond towards progress and prosperity,” he said.

Two recurring priorities that have emerged throughout this dialogue are the need to strengthen this multilateral partnership, as well as focus on the localization of our work. Ms. Abie Elizabeth Kamara, Director of the Development Assistance Coordination Office in the Ministry of Planning and Economic Development in Sierra Leone and IDPS Co-Chair Representative, concluded, “We will continue to implement concrete measures that enhance collaboration and empower local communities.” 

Globally, only 12% of Sustainable Development Goals are on track, with none of the targets for inclusive, just, and peaceful societies close to achievement in conflict-affected areas. Urgent action is essential. The IDPS Regional dialogue aims to generate momentum and trust among stakeholders, reshaping the strategies of national and international partners to support peacebuilding and statebuilding.