UPF Burkina Faso Promotes Peace and Social Cohesion in Toécé

Written by UPF-Africa
Saturday, May 31, 2025

Toécé, Burkina Faso — On May 31, 2025, the Universal Peace Federation (UPF) Burkina Faso was invited to the town of Toécé, located approximately 70 kilometers from the capital Ouagadougou, to hold a special peace event. Organized in collaboration with the local parish, this conference formed part of the preparatory activities for the parish's Golden Jubilee celebrations.

The event, attended by around 150 participants, brought together a wide array of community members, religious leaders, and civil society representatives. It began with an ecumenical prayer session led by Christian and Muslim leaders, reflecting the spirit of interfaith harmony and unity. The parish priest warmly welcomed the guests, setting the tone for an afternoon dedicated to the promotion of peace and reconciliation.

Following the prayers, a video was shown detailing the founding of the Universal Peace Federation by its co-founders, along with highlights of UPF’s ongoing efforts in Burkina Faso. The Secretary-General of UPF Burkina Faso, Mr. Thomas Diarra, gave an insightful presentation on UPF’s five guiding principles, emphasizing the values of mutual understanding, cooperation, and the importance of living for the sake of others.

A major highlight of the event was the appointment of 26 new Ambassadors for Peace, recognized for their commitment to peacebuilding within their communities. Among those honored were the bishop of the diocese, the parish priest, three additional priests, a prominent female sheikh, and several civil society leaders. Their appointment symbolizes a shared dedication to advancing peace across religious and societal lines.

In his closing remarks, the parish priest expressed deep gratitude for UPF’s presence and contribution. He announced that UPF would be invited to conduct another conference during the Golden Jubilee festivities, scheduled for the first week of June.

This event in Toécé stands as a testament to UPF’s ongoing commitment to fostering peace through inclusive dialogue, interreligious cooperation, and grassroots engagement across Burkina Faso.