Japan and UNICEF contribute to strengthening the resilience of populations in border areas with Mali during the electoral process and to mitigate the possible consequences of the Sahelian crisis.

Conakry, 24 April 2024 – As part of its support to the Government of Guinea, the Government of Japan, through UNICEF, has funded the project: "Strengthening the resilience of populations in border areas with Mali during the electoral process and to mitigate the possible consequences of the Sahelian crisis."

This project, funded by the Government of Japan to the tune of USD 572,164 through UNICEF, will run for 12 months, from January 2024 to January 2025, and its main objective is to strengthen nutrition, access to water, hygiene and sanitation services, and access to education for children in three prefectures bordering Mali: Siguiri and Mandiana in the Kankan region and Dinguiraye in the Faranah region.

"Border communities are often unstable, and it is important to support them, especially at a time of political reconfiguration in the region, which is having an impact on so-called peripheral populations. It is therefore important to provide them with special support, to avoid adding further risk to people who are already very vulnerable. Together with the Guinean government, UNICEF and our other partners, we are determined to provide this support for resilience, which will help to correct inequalities and, who knows, see the growth of future leaders for Guinea", explains His Excellency Mr KATO Ryuichi, Japan's Ambassador to Guinea.

This initiative also aims to build the capacity of communities to sustainably reduce their exposure to risks and to deal with them. It is based on a participatory approach that encourages local ownership and draws on the knowledge and skills of communities to foster social cohesion and lasting peace.

"As Guinea moves through its transition and the security situation in the Sahel remains unstable, UNICEF reiterates its call for the protection of children at all times and in all places. It is crucial to pay particular attention to supporting children and preserving their rights, as well as promoting social cohesion to ensure lasting peace. Through this project, UNICEF expresses its gratitude to the Government of Japan and the Government of Guinea for their commitment to the rights and well-being of children in Guinea," says Mr ACKEBO Félix, UNICEF Representative in Guinea.

The direct beneficiaries of this project are estimated at 44,000 people, including 6,880 men, 15,000 women, 11,260 girls and 10,860 boys. In addition, around 700,000 people living in the Kankan and Faranah regions will benefit indirectly from this initiative, through a reduction in community conflicts and improved access to basic social services.