June 2019 – Youth in the Sahel Region struggle with feelings of marginalization, stemming from limited opportunities, such as school closures, inadequate employment prospects, and poor intergenerational communication. All of these factors contribute to increased vulnerability to recruitment by violent extremist organizations (VEOs). USAID/OTI’s Burkina Faso Regional Program (BFRP) worked with SUUDU ANDAL, a local civil society organization, to organize a three-day workshop on persuasive communication using information technology and  social media. This workshop aimed to foster a sense of leadership and inclusion, empowering 100 youth participants to strengthen communication within their communities and through their social media networks.  

Alpha  became more aware of the role that youth can play in countering VEO advances and in promoting peace on social media. As a result, Alpha and other workshop participants launched the Facebook page “Djam Na’Weli,” which means “Peace is Wonderful” in the Fulani language. The participants develop page posts about peace, and share positive ideas that promote community resilience.

“The Facebook page is a good way for us to sow peace in minds of youth and to have our voices heard across the country and the world, because peace is wonderful,” said Alpha.