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In September 2025, the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung (KAS), with the support of the European Union and in coordination with ENoP, successfully concluded its training program in Côte d’Ivoire under the WYDE Political Parties Project.

The program came to a close with three ceremonies held in Man (July 26), Bouaké (July 28), and Abidjan (September 2). These events marked the conclusion of a five-month cycle of intensive training that began in March 2025, designed to build the leadership skills of youth and women within political parties and to strengthen their active participation in democratic processes.

Empowering Youth and Women for Inclusive Politics

Over the course of the program, 113 participants—including 68 young people and 45 women—followed a structured curriculum combining theory and practice. Key training modules included:

• Democratic governance and the institutions of the Republic
• Political leadership and strategic communication
• Voter mobilization strategies and citizen engagement
• Internal functioning of political parties and career pathways
• Transparency, ethics, and accountability in politics
• The social market economy and sustainable development

Through a blend of lectures, case studies, role-playing exercises, and interactive debates, participants acquired concrete skills to navigate political challenges, communicate effectively, and strengthen their role in political and civic life.

Tangible Results and Participant Impact

The outcomes of the program are already visible. Some participants have launched community debates and voter education initiatives, others have taken on greater responsibilities within their political parties, and a number have announced their candidacies for upcoming elections.

During the Abidjan closing, participants shared personal testimonies of how the program enhanced their confidence, deepened their understanding of political processes, and motivated them to act as leaders of democratic change.

Dr. Stefanie Brinkel emphasized in her remarks that this program represents part of a long-term effort to strengthen inclusive politics by preparing a new generation of leaders, especially women and youth, who remain underrepresented in Côte d’Ivoire’s political landscape.

Part of a Broader Initiative

While the ceremonies marked the conclusion of KAS’s training program in Côte d’Ivoire, the WYDE Political Parties Project continues to be implemented by other partners across Africa. Together, these initiatives contribute to building more inclusive, representative, and resilient democracies.

This KAS-led edition in Côte d’Ivoire has demonstrated both the need and the potential for structured training programs to empower emerging leaders and foster political transformation from within.y.

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