The project “Youth, Peace and Security,” funded by the Federal Republic of Germany, was implemented by Search Niger in Diffa from July 1, 2019 to July 31, 2021. Its overall objective was to strengthen community resilience and response to violent extremism and community conflict in Diffa.
The project sought to support the Government of Niger to build a more inclusive, bottom-up and participatory community engagement process for the promotion of peace and stability in the Diffa region.
The project contributed to improve social cohesion and the reduction of inter- and intra-community tensions through exchange platforms and the revitalization of local structures put in place by the Haute Autorité pour la Consolidation de la Paix (HACP) to prevent and manage conflicts. 88.69% of the respondents believe that collaboration is good or perfect in their community. 98.13% believe that young people have the ability to interact with other young people from different cultures in a non-violent way. The project also contributed to strengthening the contribution of young men and women to peace and stability in Diffa. 82.47% of the respondents believe that the level of contribution of young people, women and marginalized groups is strong and very strong. The evaluation notes that young people and women are powerful vectors for peacebuilding, provided that they are accompanied, including through income-generating activities. Youth continued to be engaged beyond project’s activities, highlighting their commitment to working for peace in their communities. Media programming was also an effective tool to support the project goals: 95.65% of the respondents agree that the programs broadcast aim to prevent violent extremism and promote peace.
