The Ministry of Interior in collaboration with the West Africa Network for Peacebuilding (WANEP), and other stakeholders recently validated the Trainer’s Manual on Community-Based Early Warning and Conflict Prevention, at Alliance Francaise. This Trainer’s Manual aims to strengthen effective local mechanisms for dispute resolution as a concrete step to conflict prevention in The Gambia. It equally serves as a guide to help trainers educate and empower others in their efforts to strengthen the capacity of communities and nations to address tensions constructively and peacefully. The manual has nine modules that address the conceptual and practical application of community conflict monitoring for conflict prevention and the possible response options for policy and decision-makers.
The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Interior, Mr Assan Tangara, stated that this manual represents not only the culmination of hard work, expertise, and dedication but also the embodiment of a shared commitment to mitigating conflict before it escalates, and fostering an environment where peace is not only hoped for but actively built. “The manual we are validating today is not just a set of instructions for trainers; but also it is a tool for empowering individuals, organisations, and communities to anticipate and address conflicts before they erupt into violence”, PS Tangara highlighted.
Mr Tangara posited that early warning systems and conflict prevention strategies are the bedrock of proactive peace building. He opined that by equipping practitioners with the knowledge and skills to detect early signs of conflict and respond effectively, they are laying the foundation for a more resilient society. “As we move forward, let us commit to ensuring that the tools and strategies outlined in this manual are not only validated today but also actively implemented in the field. Let us support our trainers, field monitors, and communities in their efforts to anticipate, prevent, and resolve conflicts. Together, we can create a world where the early warning of conflict leads to meaningful action, and where peace is not just an aspiration, but a reality for all,” he advised.
The National Network Coordinator of WANEP, Ms Salama Njie, disclosed that the Trainer’s Manual on Early Warning and Conflict Prevention was inspired by the outcome of rigorous work of the capacity assessment of national and regional early warning systems in The Gambia, under the auspices of the United Nations Development Program. Ms Njie noted that early warning, dialogue and mediation practices that are relevant to The Gambia were taken into consideration. She added that the Manual will become a national document that will be utilised by all early warning and peacebuilding institutions in The Gambia.
“The Trainer’s Manual is a conscious effort to you as trainers, researchers, and practitioners in testing the concepts at community and national levels,” she highlighted. In conclusion, she recognised the Ministry of Interior for its guidance and excellent leadership in the journey and equally acknowledged the invaluable contribution of the participants at the Training of Trainers meeting.
Mr Yirah Mansaray, representative of the United Nations Development Programme extended his gratitude to WANEP-The Gambia and the Ministry of Interior for taking the leadership to strengthen the capacity of Early Warning institutions in The Gambia. Mr Mansaray recognized the crucial role that early warning systems (EWS) play in their collective efforts to prevent violent conflicts and mitigate the impacts of insecurity on human lives. “On the occasion for the validation of the Trainer’s Manual I want to reaffirm UNDP’s commitment to working closely with WANEP and key partners in strengthening peace and security in The Gambia. Together, we can create a more resilient environment that not only prevents conflicts but also facilitates enduring peace, security, and development for all Gambians,” he concluded.
