Mali Peacebuilding, Stabilization, and

Reconciliation

Quarterly Report – FY2020 October - December 2019

Implementation Period: April 16, 2018 - April 30, 2023 FY 2020 Quarterly Report October 1, 2019 - December 30, 2019

This document was produced for review by the United States Agency for International Development. It was prepared by Creative Associates International, USAID's implementing partner under PSR. USAID Point of Contact: Andrew Lucas, COR, [email protected] Prime Partner: Creative Associates International Activity Name: Mali Peacebuilding, Stabilization, and Reconciliation Contract #: 720-688-18-C-00002

CONTENTS I. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ...... 4 II. CONTEXT ...... 5 III. FOUNDATIONAL ACTIVITIES ...... 9 IV. OBJECTIVE 1: RESILIENCE TO VIOLENCE AND CONFLICT REINFORCED ...... 11 V. OBJECTIVE 2: INCLUSIVE GOVERNANCE AND CIVIC ENGAGEMENT STRENGTHENED IN CONFLICT-AFFECTED COMMUNITIES ...... 16 VI. OBJECTIVE 3: EMPOWERING YOUTH AND BUILDING THEIR RESILIENCE TO VIOLENT EXTREMISM ...... 16 VII. MONITORING AND EVALUATION ...... 23 VIII. OPERATIONS ...... 23 IX. CONSTRAINTS AND CHALLENGES ...... 24 X. COORDINATION AND PARTNERSHIP ...... 25 XI. LESSONS LEARNED ...... 26 XII. SUCCESS STORY ...... 267

MALI PEACEBUILDING, STABILIZATION, & RECONCILIATION QUARTERLY REPORT 1 FY2020 2

ACRONYMS

AMSS Association Malienne de la Survie au (Malian Association for Survival in the Sahel) CAF Conflict Analysis Framework CAFO Coordination des Associations et ONGs Féminines (Coordination of Women's Associations and NGOs) CBO Community-Based Organization CC Community Coordinator CEC Community Engagement Committee CMA Coordination des Mouvements de l’ (Coordination of Azawad Movements) CNAP Centre National d’Alerte Précoce (National Early Warning Center) COR Contracting Officer's Representative COREM Community Resilience in Mali/ CSO Civil Society Organization DDR Disarmament, Demobilization and Reintegration DQA Data Quality Assessments DNI Dialogue National Inclusif (National Inclusive Dialogue) EWRS Early Warning and Response System FAMA Forces Armées Maliennes () FRAMe® Fragility and Resilience Assessment Methodology GATIA Groupe d’Auto-défense Touareg IMGHAD et Alliés (Imghad Tuareg Self-Defense Group and Allies) GOM Government of Mali HCUA Haut Conseil pour l'Unité de l'Azawad (High Council for the unity of Azawad) IMEL Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning MINUSMA United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali MJP Mali Justice Project MTAD Ministry of Territorial Administration and Decentralization NGO Non-Governmental Organization PSR Programme de Consolidation de la Paix (Peacebuilding Program) PDESC Plan de Développement Economique, Social et Culturel (Economic, Social and Cultural Development Plan) P2P People-to-People UNDP United Nations Development Programme PVE Preventing Violent Extremism RPM Regional Program Manager SMART System for Managing Activities and Report Tracking SNGP Sub-National Governance project ULSHB Université des Lettres et des Sciences Humaines de (University of Arts and Social Science of Bamako) USAID United States Agency for International Development USG US Government VE Violent Extremism WANEP Network for Peacebuilding

MALI PEACEBUILDING, STABILIZATION, & RECONCILIATION QUARTERLY REPORT 1 FY2020 3

I. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

The Mali Peacebuilding, Stabilization and Reconciliation (PSR) program (herein referred to as the project), is a USAID five-year $20 million contract with a potential $5 million crisis modifier. The project is implemented by Creative Associates International along with local partners Association Malienne pour la Survie au Sahel (AMSS), facilitating implementation in northern Mali, and Think Peace, facilitating implementation in the center of Mali. The purpose of this project is to improve prospects for long-term peace, security, and reconciliation by building trust between conflict- affected communities and their governments, strengthening the ability of communities to mitigate and manage conflict, prioritize and implement community-led action around their most pressing development needs, and training and empowering marginalized youth as change agents. Program activities are being implemented in 41 conflict affected communes in the center and northern Mali covering seven (7) regions, Ségou, Mopti, Tombouctou, , , Menaka and Taoudenit with linkages to regional and national policies intended to promote peace, reconciliation and development. The goal of PSR is to see measurable improvement in the efficiency, effectiveness and capacities of local communities to be more resilient to conflict and violent extremism. Fostering stability in target regions is not only a desired end unto itself, but a necessary pre- condition for the full and complete implementation of the peace agreement and the regional development plans- which, in turn, will create the conditions for more lasting, durable peace. PSR activities are integrated by three objectives which support this broader program goal. This report summarizes the project’s progress and achievements under the three objectives, made in the first quarter of FY 2020.

The October – December 2019 period represents the first quarter of year 2 for Mali PSR. The quarter was productive despite the volatile security situation in key locations that posed mobility challenges for program staff. There were several achievements realized during the quarter that include the conclusion of the project’s foundational activities in the Center and the North. The remaining foundational activities were anchored by the findings from the Integrated Conflict Assessment Framework (ICAF) and the Fragility Resilience Assessment Methodology (FRAMe®) studies which were also concluded during the quarter. The project team also completed conflict prevention and mitigation, and preventing violent extremism trainings for local influential actors, and conducted P2P community dialogues/public debates aimed at promoting social cohesion in communes fraught with conflict.

A key achievement of the quarter was the presentation and dissemination of findings of the ICAF- FRAMe® intersectoral analysis that provides a nuanced understanding of the linkage between conflict and governance in PSR’s intervention communes. In November and December, the PSR team presented the FRAMe® findings to the US Mission, USAID Democracy and Governance implementing partners, and the project’s line ministry--the Ministry of Territorial Administration and Decentralization (MTAD). The feedback received from the presentations of the ICAF- FRAMe® findings will inform how results are disseminated at regional and commune levels.

Activities under Objective 1 focused on enhancing the conflict prevention and resolution capacity of influential actors and conducting dialogues to promote peaceful coexistence between communities. Conflict prevention and mitigation training was also conducted by PSR Community

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Coordinators in ten (10) communes1 using training modules jointly developed with the Mali Justice Project (MJP) and the Centre National d’Alerte Précoce et de Reponses aux Risques Securitaires (CNAP).

Under Objective II, PSR held meetings with the Agences de Développement Régional (ADRs) in the seven intervention regions along with other donors and implementing partners, to better understand the process for developing the PDESCs. The meetings also provided an opportunity to discuss and mutually agree on the roadmap for increasing citizen participation in the process.

Under Objective III, activities carried out during the period focused on reducing youth, family, and community vulnerability to violent extremism through training sessions, public debates, and youth civic engagement. The project team conducted Preventing Violent Extremism (PVE) training in nine (9) communes2 and organized a peace caravan and two (2) public debates in Macina and Tenenkou. An asset mapping activity that engages youth to promote civic engagement and entrepreneurial initiatives in their communities was also conducted during the reporting period.

Finally, and as part of the project’s cross-cutting P2P activities to promote social cohesion through a Malian cultural prism, PSR concluded the #1Mali1Peace campaign, which was initially launched in September 2019, by awarding seven (7) grants to youth and women’s local organizations.

II. CONTEXT

The reporting period was launched by a National Inclusive Dialogue (DNI) throughout the country organized by the government. Dialogues were held in 611 out of a total of 730 communes (October 7-8), cercles (October 15-16), regions (October 21-22) and concluded in Bamako (December14-22). The main purpose of the DNI was to identify solutions to the security challenges Mali has been facing since the May 2015 Algiers Peace Accord. The DNI took place in 29 of 46 PSR intervention communes3. Participants discussed several issues that are relevant to the project overarching objectives: peace, security, and social cohesion; governance; and culture, youth and sports. At the end of the national dialogue process, participants issued four key resolutions related to the organization of legislative elections; a constitutional referendum; security and return of state administration; and the Algiers Peace Accord.

For some, the DNI did not achieve the intended results of assembling all stakeholders. Some major opposition parties and civil society groups did not participate arguing that the process was not inclusive. They also denounced the absence on the agenda of contentious issues such as a possible revision of the Algiers Peace Accord and/or engagement with “spoilers”. Conversely, the Coordination of Azawad Movements (CMA)4 attended the concluding session after purportedly getting assurance that a review of the Peace Accord would not be discussed. CMA

1 Ber, , Dire, , Alata, Bamba, Menaka, , and . 2 , Inaly, Agouni, , Ber, Dire, , Mopti and Bourem 3 , Dire, Goundam, Soboundou, Gao, , Ouattagouna, , Soni Ali Ber, Bourem, Bamba, Tarkint, Ménaka, Anderamboucane, Alata in the North; and Koro, , Teninkou, , Macina, , Matomo, Tongue, Segou, , Diabaly and Pelengana in the Center. The terms of reference read that the dialogue would take place in 611 out of a total of 730 communes. 4 The CMA is an umbrella organization of armed groups that rebelled in 2012, including the National Movement for the Liberation of Azawad (MNLA), the High Council for the Unity of Azawad (HCUA). Members include Tuaregs, Arab and Sonrai.

MALI PEACEBUILDING, STABILIZATION, & RECONCILIATION QUARTERLY REPORT 1 FY2020 5 argued the DNI was not the appropriate forum and a possible revision should be discussed within the Accord monitoring committee. In Timbuktu, the Islamic High Council representative withdrew from the discussions denouncing the lack of inclusivity and low quota for youth participants. A representative of the Council stated: “The absence of rural communes and a large number of key actors should motivate the organizers to postpone these meetings, which is why we have not made any recommendations.” In view of the public discord between stakeholders and lack of CMA participation in the DNI at the commune, cercle and regional levels, it is uncertain that all parts of the resolutions will be implemented. PSR will closely monitor and support implementation of the resolutions at the local level by partnering with the Voices4Peace project to disseminate resolutions in target communes, support activities for ex-combatants such as preparing communities for reinsertion/reintegration, and continue close collaboration with traditional leaders trained in conflict prevention/mitigation and resolution as key influencers.

The Demobilization, Disarmament and Reintegration (DDR) process was stalled during the reporting period. In the North, the first contingent of 1,600 ex-combatants from the Gao, Timbuktu and Kidal regions are still awaiting integration into the Malian army. Ex-fighters from the signatories and non-signatories armed movements of the Algiers Accord are waiting in the Mecanisme Operationnel de Coordination (MOC)5 camps until cantonment centers are functional. In the Center, on November 26, 2019, more than 270 weapons and 1,533 bullets were collected from 352 former combatants, including 17 women at the Soufroulaye cantonment camp in Mopti. Self-defense militias such as the Dogon Dan Na Ambassagou6 declined to participate in the DDR process7 because according to its representatives, its participation is subject to the presence of the Malian army to secure the population and property. The militia is signaling that at a minimum, the state should fulfill its responsibility to protect citizens rather than “relying” on Dan Na Ambassagou to do so. In Bandiagara, Koro, , Bankass and Segué, Dan Na Ambassagou provides security which enables PSR to implement activities in these communes. PSR intends to support the reinsertion and reintegration of ex-combatants in the communes of Koro and Macina (center), as well as Gao and Ménaka (north) as the DDR process moves forward.

Throughout the reporting period, violent clashes continued between armed groups, the Malian military and international armed forces. On November 1, there was an attack on the Malian army in Indelimane, (Menaka region) near the border which resulted in 54 fatalities, one of whom was a civilian. On November 18, armed groups attacked the army outpost in the village of Tabankort in the Menaka region, killing 30 and causing the displacement of some 800 households who fled to Menaka town and surrounding villages. In response, President Keita announced a tactical withdrawal of troops from isolated positions. As a result, soldiers and pro-government armed groups based in Anderamboukane relocated to the town of Menaka. Local sources reported increased criminal acts against civilians and international organizations, several of which were forced to suspend operations therefore reducing much-needed humanitarian and development assistance.

5 MOC is responsible for planning and conducting joint patrols involving Malian Army (FAMa), CMA and Platform, to ensure security in northern Mali with support from MINUSMA and international forces per the terms of the Peace Agreement. 6 Dan Na Ambassagou is a coalition of Dogon self-defense militias. 7 https://www.studiotamani.org/index.php/themes/politique/22070-processus-ddr-a-mopti-352-ex-combattants-cantonnes; Article accessed 1/2/2020.

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The joint Malian Army/United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA) patrols were suspended due to renewed tension within and between the signatory armed groups to the Peace Accord. There was an attack on the Inates military post in Niger on December 10, where 71 soldiers were killed. This led to an influx of refugees to the Malian villages of Anouzagren, Tamalatt, Inchinanen in the commune of Anderamboukane.

Inter-community conflicts were exacerbated by the presence of extremist groups and self- defense militias. For example, on November 13, the Dozos allegedly attacked the Peulh village of Pe, killing approximately 20 people. In Bankass, Bandiagara, Ouenkoro, Koro and , self- defense groups erected checks points. In early December, the last check point at the entrance to Bandiagara was re-located to Sevaré presumably to exert increased control over the movements of vehicles and “suspicious” individuals. These checks points increase the risk of inter-ethnic violence as controls seem to target Peuhls.

In addition to intercommunal violence, there were larger anti-MINUSMA protests. On October 9, at the request of the civil society platform Fasso Ko8, approximately 1,000 people demonstrated outside the MINUSMA office in Sevaré. Tensions escalated when protesters began looting the UN storage containers. On December 24, youth of the sent an ultimatum to MINUSMA demanding its departure from their communes. They argued that their area becomes a target after each mission is carried out by MINUSMA.

During the quarter, armed extremist groups in certain communes closed formal schools due to their opposition to “Western” education. For example, On October 24, the media reported that armed groups closed approximately 30 schools in the Segou region, including 11 in Niono. In the rural commune of Farako, located 17 km from the urban commune of Segou, armed groups also closed 35 schools and threatened teachers in the commune and surrounding villages. In some areas, schools were closed by teacher strikes. By the end of the quarter, more than 1,200 schools across the country were closed, an increase from the 900 schools during the previous quarter.

In some PSR communes, the presence of armed groups had an adverse impact on basic food supply and livelihoods. Armed groups continued to steal cattle, destroy crops and intimidate farmers leading to food insecurity and forced displacement. In Mopti, they sabotaged bridges and staged attacks on the roads to Douentza and the Dogon Plateau. This resulted in weekly markets not opening as scheduled, and a general scarcity of goods.

There were some positive trends during the reporting period. For example, the Timbuktu and Taoudenit regions were relatively calm following joint military patrols by CMA, Malian soldiers and international forces. Travel on the Timbuktu-Niafunke road resumed; and communities were able to hold general meetings at the end of the quarter. In the , few inter-community incidents were reported in the communes of Tenenkou, Youwarou, Djenne, Macina following the July/August agreements to end hostilities.

During the period and based on PSR’s definition of conflict and insecurity in the North and Center of the country, the project used the nine (9) criteria related to its program objectives to classify

8 Fasso Ko means a matter of the country in Bambara.

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449 target communes as resilient, buffer or in conflict. Communities in conflict are most vulnerable to and affected by ongoing conflict and insecurity. Buffer communes have some resilience but remain largely at risk for conflict. Communes without conflict and insecurity are classified as resilient. This quarterly assessment of target communes informs the project’s adjustments to program design and interventions. For example, in Tessit, rather than using the term “violent extremism”, PSR and its grantees focused on discussing enhancing youth employment as a way to safely discuss PVE and include women into the discussions. In Segou, PSR moved swiftly to extend PVE training for community members to in-school populations.

The nine (9) criteria are the following:

Under Objective 1 • level of conflicts • status of the mechanisms to prevent and mitigate conflicts • existence of external threats

Under Objective 2 • functioning of state services • delivery of basic social services to the citizen • existence of communication and exchange mechanisms between the state and the citizens

Under Objective 3 • existence of radical beliefs • engagement of youth in violent extremist activities • occupation by violent extremist groups

Accordingly, from October to December 2019, given persistent insecurity, the assessment highlighted that 13 communes remained in conflict, 18 buffer and seven (7) resilient. The communes of Bourem Inaly and Timbuktu moved from buffer to resilient while the communes of Diabaly, Niono (Center), Agouni and Soboundou (North) status declined from buffer to conflict.

In communes classified as conflict, the absence or weak presence of state officials continued to hinder the delivery of basic social services thus widening the trust deficit between citizens and the government and rendering participatory governance and collective action difficult. For example, the Mayors of Essouk and reside in Kidal. The Mayor and Sub-prefect of Alata reside in Menaka. The Sub-prefect of Ouattagouna and Mayor of Tessit reside in Ansongo and the Mayor of Ouattagouna in Karou. The Sub-prefect of Tarkint resides in Bourem and the Mayor in Gao. The presence of armed groups largely contributes to the hinderance of state presence, free movement, access to basic social services, and artistic expression. In Ouenkoro, threats of attacks by armed groups on the Bankass-Ouenkoro road increased during market weeks thereby reducing attendance. In , basic social services are not available to residents, and, as is the case of conflict communes in the north, the mayor, sub-prefect, and communal council

9 Achamour and Touwal which were added to the project scope on November 12, 2019.

MALI PEACEBUILDING, STABILIZATION, & RECONCILIATION QUARTERLY REPORT 1 FY2020 8 members are based outside of their locale. In the villages of Omo and Koba, cultural activities are strictly forbidden, and formal schools are now closed. remains under the control of armed groups which means that NGOs do not have access. Consequently, PSR has not been able to implement or even relocate activities as doing so represents a great risk for participants upon their return to the commune. Proposals for addressing the lack of access in Togue Mourari, Dinangourou, and are being considered by the PSR consortium and will be sent forward for USAID consideration in the early part of Quarter 2. In buffer communes, such as Tessalit, Dire, and Douentza, the presence of armed groups hinders the freedom of movement and expression. Basic social services, particularly schools, are intermittently unavailable however, armed groups ensure the security of people and their property in Ber. Part of the Menaka commune is controlled by armed groups. Despite that, state officials are present and provide a few basic services in some villages. In Koro, the Dan Na Ambassagou militias ensure security where basic services are only available in the capital of the commune and in small number of adjacent villages. The commune of Douentza is surrounded by communes in conflict and access using the Sevare--Bore-Douentza road is almost impossible. In Konna, participants risk kidnapping if meetings are held outside the capital of the commune due to the presence of armed groups in the surrounding 28 villages. In Bankass and Segue, there is intermittent access to basic services. In Macina, Mopti and Djenne, there were fewer intercommunity attacks due to the cessation of hostilities agreement signed by conflict parties in July/August 2019. Only seven (7) out of 46 communes are classified as resilient because the state is present and basic social services are delivered. These communes are not subjected to violent conflicts largely due to presence of the Malian army and/or international military forces. Joint patrols by the Malian Army/CMA/Platform10 with support from the international forces also contributed to the security of residents in the commune of Timbuktu, while the Bourem Inaly commune did not experience any conflict. As a result, these two communes moved from buffer to resilient. Conversely, during the quarter, the communes of Soboundou, Agouni, Diabaly and Niono moved from buffer to conflict. In Soboundou, the state is absent and armed groups restricted the freedom of movement and expression which means that meetings could not be held for fear of participants being assaulted or kidnapped. Basic social services are also not provided in most villages. In Soboundou, 18 out of 32 schools are closed. Much like in Soboundou, the state is absent in Agouni, which is mainly controlled by armed groups thus also making it impossible to hold meetings for fear of being attacked or abducted. Cultural activities are also prohibited. In Diabaly, the commune is divided with permanent tensions between the security forces and armed groups. Schools are closed in areas controlled by armed groups. Latent conflicts between farmers and herders exacerbated this volatile security situation. In Niono, meetings and free movement were restricted with extremist groups operating openly. They closed some schools, threatened teachers and burned teaching materials. A complete list of the commune classification is included as Annex II. III. FOUNDATIONAL ACTIVITIES

10 The Platform is mainly comprised of the Coordination des Mouvements et Fronts Patriotiques de Résistance (CMFPR–I) and the Groupe d’Autodéfense Touareg Imghad et Alliés (GATIA).

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Grants

From October to December 2019, PSR awarded seven (7) grants totaling $18,426 (see Annex III for a complete list of grants). To facilitate and fully operationalize the processing of grants, a five- day training was conducted for PSR’s technical team from November 4-8 on a new system called the System for Managing Activities and Report Tracking (SMART). SMART is an online grants management platform. The outcome of the training yielded a stronger understanding and appreciation of the grants process and cycle, the development of solicitations, and identification of possible grantees. At the close of the reporting period, a draft Grants Frequently Asked Questions reference guide was developed. It is being translated into French for field staff.

Intersectoral Analysis

November 14, 2019 was an important date for the project as it marked the first presentation and sharing of the findings of the Integrated Conflict Analysis Framework and the Fragility and Resilience Assessment Methodology (FRAMe®). The presentation provided a nuanced, granular understanding of the intersect between governance and conflict. The U.S. Ambassador, USAID Mission Director, other USG senior officials, implementing partners, Creative’s leadership team including the Senior Vice President for Communities in Transition, Association Malienne pour la Survie au Sahel and Think Peace Directors11 and the ULSHB Dean were in attendance. A Malian staff member from the American embassy commended PSR for leveraging Mali’s local university research capacity which for many, enhanced the credibility of the data, some of which is sensitive as it reveals Malians’ perceptions of each other and their government. The report on the FRAMe® and ICAF findings, entitled Path to Resilience, identified the governance levers on which to act, to prevent, and/or to manage conflict. It also provides an understanding of the roles played by each actor in conflict dynamics, as well as who should be involved in building resilience through the governance system, providing a roadmap for PSR activity design. For example, early warning and response is only possible in communes where there is sufficient trust and confidence12. In Pelengana where youth feel excluded, efforts will focus on developing opportunities for them to FRAMe®/ICAF Presentation to US Embassy engage elders and government officials in a safe space on the topic of identifying avenues and seeking support for their civic participation. Across all communes, women are viewed as having a large potential for serving as peace actors, providing room and opportunity for PSR to support and expand women’s agency. Thus, at the commune level, everyone, especially conflict actors, must be engaged to begin the process of building trust and confidence as a necessary foundation

11 The Association Malienne pour la Survie au Sahel and Think Peace are members of the PSR consortium. 12 Markala, Segué, Segou, Ouenkoro, and Tenenkou, Agouni, Alata , , Ber, Bamba

MALI PEACEBUILDING, STABILIZATION, & RECONCILIATION QUARTERLY REPORT 1 FY2020 10 for collective action, which could then be supported by external interventions. A key finding of the data underscored that local commune officials alone, cannot lead a community to resilience.

Following the presentation to USAID, on December 11th, the project team presented the ICAF- FRAMe® findings to Boubacar Apha Ba, Minister of Territorial Administration and Decentralization (MTAD) and his staff. In attendance was the USAID Mission Director. Deputy Mission Director, the Director for the Peace, Democracy and Governance office, the COR and alternate COR. The Minister and his team were receptive to the findings from ICAF/FRAMe® and also receptive to the plans that were shared by the project team to present the findings to the regional and national authorities and development partners in the subsequent quarter. The Minister was very supportive of the plan and agreed to support the project for the national and regional debriefings. PSR will continue to work in collaboration with WANEP and ULSHB to present the findings to regional/national authorities and development partners next quarter. The project’s Community Coordinators will present the findings to the Community Engagement Committees (CEC), local officials, and commune residents.

IV. OBJECTIVE 1: RESILIENCE TO VIOLENCE AND CONFLICT REINFORCED

Training of Key Influencers in Conflict Mediation, Negotiation and Dispute Resolution Using modules created by the Mali Justice Project, 368 key influencers, including 92 women and 89 youth were trained on conflict prevention and mitigation during the quarter in 10 communes13. Participants included members of the Community Engagement Committees, youth and women associations, traditional/religious leaders, and local authorities. Trainings were facilitated by the PSR Community Coordinator in each locality and centered around four topics: 1) conflict mapping and mitigation mechanisms; 2) causes of conflicts; 3) involvement of influential people in the management of conflicts; and, 4) skills required to resolve conflicts and to be a good mediator.

In Bamba, participants from the Sonrai, Tamasheq, Arab, and Bozo communities identified access to land, family and social conflicts related to inheritance/marriage/religion, and, management of natural resources (salt mines, water points) as the main drivers of conflicts. In Agouni, Ber, and Dire, participants cited conflicts related to land, other natural resources and tensions between herders and farmers as the most frequent. Interpersonal and leadership conflicts were also identified.

The training was a refresher course for CEC members who already have basic knowledge on conflict prevention and mitigation techniques. Other participants learned about resource persons and conflict prevention/mitigation mechanisms. In Ouattagouna, participants from the Peulh, Sonrai, Tamasheq and Dogon communities identified the palaver tree, religious leaders and the cousinage a plaisanterie14 between Dogon and Sonrai as avenues for mitigation in the village of

13 Ber, Agouni, Dire, Ouattagouna, Alata, Bamba, Menaka, Tessalit, Tarkint and Essouk. 14 Can be translated as joking cousins which is a traditional conflict prevention and mitigation mechanism.

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Labbezenga. In Tessalit, traditional mechanisms included Erkawal15, Achak16 Anmifliss17 and TamaghaterT18.

Trainings were participatory and provided the space for youth to safely express their views to local authorities. In Alata, for example, the youth accused the leaders of being the root cause of community ills and of living at the expense of the populations they purport to represent.

Community perceptions expressed during the training were consistent with the ICAF findings that underscore that a lack of access to justice is a key conflict driver along with weak governance; competition for natural resources; struggle for legitimacy; and the breakdown of social cohesion. Overall, the trainings were successful and key actors’ and influencers’ capacities have been strengthened to help prevent and mitigate conflicts in their communities. It is anticipated that these actors will serve as resource persons in their communes helping to enhance stability and social cohesion.

Testimonials from some of the training participants that reflect their appreciation of the training include the following:

TESTIMONIALS

Elmehidi Ag Wassilata, Advisor to the Bamba village chief stated: “I think that we [members of the community] are at the root of conflict because each of us knows who is responsible for the unrest in our commune, but no one wants to say the truth. On top of that, there is injustice and lack of communication between us community leaders. All our children have become sources of conflict with their bad behaviors, but no one wants to denounce or actually tell their child the truth. I am delighted to have participated in this training.”

According to Fadimata Mahamar, a woman leader: “This training on conflict prevention and management is particularly important to us women because we have been at the center of the peace process from the outbreak of the crisis to date. I accuse women of sometimes being responsible for the bad behaviors of their children who engage in banditry. I call on all women in the commune of Bamba to commit to explain to their communities the causes and consequences of conflict prevention and management. For my part, I will ensure that my community, especially women, are informed and trained on conflict prevention and management.”

Forataye Ag Etaw, Mayor of the Alata commune said: “This training is so important to address the current security context of Alata. The commune is becoming more and more a safe haven of several communities from the cercles of Menaka and Gao. There is a proverb that if you put cups together and there is wind, they will make noise, let alone people. Hence, I say that conflict is normal. We must, however, make sure that they do not become violent.”

15 Can be translated as a social bond and fidelity to this bond between the different Tuareg fractions. It is an agreement based on a reciprocity of non-violence and non-aggression between communities sharing the same environment, pastures and or water points. Anyone who breaks this community principle is often banished or excluded from the Tuareg society. 16 Code of honor which prevents doing things that are contrary to the Tuareg way of life. 17 Deep trust between communities that constitutes a pillar for preserving cohesion and coexistence. 18 Mutual aid/solidarity that exists in Tuareg society, which allows each community to help another community in the management of conflicts, sometimes through financial assistance.

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Ina Walett, a female youth participant said: “To prevent conflict we need fair justice, we must fight against poverty, consider our differences, and involve women. Women embody compassion. Love is in the breast of the woman. Look at this child, my dream is that he does not grow up finding the situation we are presently in.”

Agaly Ag Mossa, a youth participant stated: We are not in a normal situation and I have the impression some people fuel the conflict to benefit from it. We the youth do not intend to remain on the margins of what is happening. The lack of education and job opportunities feed the conflicts. However, I am convinced that the most promising solutions will come from the youth.”

Second Deputy Mayor of Ouattagouna, Ahmid Ag Mohamed: “Everyone knows that we need to talk to each other to resolve disputes and grievances between communities. This training provided us with tools on how to conduct mediations in order to find local solutions in a more organized manner. We are better equipped and prepared to prevent and mitigate disputes.”

Hamidou Diallo, President of the CEC and the Community Youth Council of Ouattagouna: “This training is so important to us as community leaders. It is timely for all those who know the volatile security situation in the commune of Ouatagouna. We will use our grassroots community organizations, places of worship and even our schools to ensure that key points of the training are relayed. The return to social cohesion in our commune requires such capacity building.”

Med Lamine Ould Sidi, an Agouni religious leader said: “In our area, we are mostly herders. The main source of our conflicts comes from the mismanagement of the pasture areas. Just last month, a conflict between two herders was so serious that it could not be mitigated by the community leaders. We had to resort to the Cadi19 to manage the conflict.”

Habbo Ould Hamadi, Mayor of the Ber commune: “The training was really productive and interesting, given the active participation in the discussions. I think it will have a great impact on all social strata in the Ber commune. Several relevant topics were discussed, including the benefits of peace and the consequences of conflicts. I think this is an opportunity for some people in this room to make peace. This kind of training must be duplicated because the commune has been in a state of growing insecurity for the past five years.”

President of the Ber municipal youth council: “This training allowed me to understand [learn] another way of dealing with situations of violence. Not only have I acquired the techniques of conflict management, but also the knowledge that allows me to prevent them. I hope that the other participants feel the same way and will make these techniques part of our daily life to minimize tensions and conflicts.”

Abdoulaye K Touré, a Dire community leader: “In the past, we chiefs were listened to and respected by our communities and most conflicts were managed by consensus. But this is no longer the case, because in my opinion, politics destroyed the title of neighborhood chief. We have become politicians and are no longer neutral. Thus, if we want to restore our title of first mediator in our neighborhoods, we have to be neutral. I found the training useful because it allowed us to discuss the skills of a good mediator and even understand the mediation and conciliation processes.”

19 A judge who renders decisions according to Islamic law.

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A summary of recommendations from the training include as follows: o Strengthen youth and women resilience to violence so they would not join armed groups o Enhance capacity of influential actors to prevent and mitigate conflicts by scaling up conflict prevention and management training o Organize outreach activities/disseminate messages through rural radio stations o Rehabilitate water points in sites at risk of conflict around water o Organize sports and cultural events and awareness raising campaigns on conflict prevention o Operationalize traditional conflict prevention and management mechanisms o Involve youth, women, traditional and customary chiefs, religious leaders, traditional communicators in conflict prevention and management o Disseminate peace and reconciliation messages on local radio stations

As a next step, PSR will award grants to support some of the above recommendations. Also, as follow-up, the project’s Community Coordinator will attend the monthly meetings with the CEC to document and report on the effectiveness of the trainings vis-à-vis the mechanisms used to minimize/mitigate conflicts, and the nature and number of conflicts thus gauging the impact of these trainings and skills attained and used by participants. The outcome will help determine a commune’s path to resilience.

Dialogues Around Specific Group Grievances Using P2P PSR is providing targeted support to communes to strengthen their resilience to conflict and violent extremism using a People to People (P2P) community dialogue methodology. Five (5) P2P dialogues were conducted in Tongue, Matomo, Segue, Konna and Anderamboukane. Dialogues provided the space for constructive discussion of grievances and challenges of coexistence and social cohesion. For example, during the quarter, herders of the Peulh, Daoussak, Zarma, Tuareg communities from the border area with Niger, heads of villages or their advisors, and five (5) chefs de quartier of the commune came together between October 22-23, in Anderamboukane, to propose solutions to on-going conflicts. The mayor and the president of the College Transitoire20 co-chaired the meetings that aimed to resolve conflicts over natural resources and promote peace and social cohesion among herders. The dialogues also provided a space to discuss ways to improve the management of natural resources, including pastures and water points. In one the meeting, the mayor declared: “This meeting provides not only the space for the Peulhs and Daoussaks who have been involved in conflicts but also herders to discuss challenges and opportunities to coexist. Livestock is the main if not the only activity in the entire commune of Anderamboukane.”

Training of key actors was conducted on the agro-pastoral charter21 and land laws on October 16-17 in Tongue. This training helped to enhance knowledge and skills and reviewed mechanisms needed to prevent and mitigate tensions related to transhumance and farming. The President of the Chamber of Agriculture state during the meeting: “The commune just seized a rare opportunity and must take advantage of it for a peaceful agricultural campaign.” Thereafter, the Mayor set up a

20 The Colleges Transitoires replace the Regional Councils in Menaka and Taoudeni as provided for in the Algiers Peace Agreement. 21 An agro-pastoral charter aims to regulate the relationships between farmers and herders.

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44-member Monitoring Commission reflecting socio-cultural and ethnic diversity from Bambara, Peuhl, Dafing, Mossi and Minianka ethnic groups to conduct follow-up reviews of the implementation of the recommendations. The commission comprises elected officials, CEC members, the chiefs of the ten (10) villages, as well as representatives of the Chamber of Agriculture, and women and youth associations of each village. PSR will help to support the work of the Commission through training members in conflict prevention/mitigation and through sensitization campaigns aimed at enhancing the public’s knowledge about relevant laws.

On October 26, participants debated the volatile security situation in Matomo, particularly the inter-communal attacks between Peulh and Bambara. The Village Chief of Digama gave the following statement: “This is a rare opportunity that we must use to prepare our desire to coexist. Our parents who were forced to flee after decades of life will no longer be welcomed here. The damage and losses recorded cannot even be recovered in 30 years, but the most important thing is to know and be able to go back as we were. This will only be possible if we forgive and unite. I therefore call for forgiveness and tolerance in the name of social cohesion.” PSR facilitated a community dialogue in Konna on October 26th around a variety of issues ranging from psychosocial trauma, internally displaced persons, school closures, recurrent attacks on civilians and military camps, to mistrust among citizens. Hasseye Konta, a local photographer warned: “If the situation remains unchanged, many jobs will disappear, our culture will disappear, and our children will have no reference points. This is what armed groups are aiming for.” Women and young people committed to playing a more prominent role by raising awareness of the issues discussed and serving as agents of change in grassroots conflict resolution/peacebuilding efforts. PSR also facilitated a community dialogue chaired by the village head of Segue on October 28th. The meeting centered around DDR and the creation of income-generating activities and apprenticeships. Elyse Somboro, a member of the Local Coordination of Women's Associations and NGOs said: “We must mobilize for peace. It is not only up to the government to guarantee peace, but to everyone, through reconciliation, coexistence, to commit our communities to sustainable development.” Philip Tolofoudie, a hunter of the Dozo brotherhood said: We are ready for disarmament but not at all costs. We did not take up arms to expect anything from reintegration, but we took up arms to secure our families. If the disarmament is observed by all parties, we will return to our work. But, wanting to disarm the Dozos for the benefit of others, we will never accept22. The main recommendations from the community dialogues included the following: o Increase key actors’ involvement in mitigating tensions/countering violent o Set up committees to monitor pastures, salt marshes and water points. o Draft a curriculum to disseminate legal texts related to natural resources o Set up/strengthen the capacity of land commission members o Organize village-level consultations on social cohesion and coexistence o Reinforce ties across and within communities- in particular between youth through cultural, sporting and civic education activities o Support income-generating activities in particular for the victims (widows and orphans) o Support the return of development partners and displaced populations

22 Dozo brotherhoods are traditional hunters are known for their knowledge and are often called upon during times of crisis, war and political instability (e.g., in Côte d’Ivoire and Sierra Leone). The Dozo brotherhood carry small-caliber hunting rifles and wear tunics with amulets said to render them invincible.

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The mayor and local authorities, along with members of the CEC and PSR’s Community Coordinator will follow-up the recommendations with the appropriate actions.

V. OBJECTIVE 2: INCLUSIVE GOVERNANCE AND CIVIC ENGAGEMENT STRENGTHENED IN CONFLICT-AFFECTED COMMUNITIES

During the quarter, PSR engaged with key government actors, other USAID-funded projects, and international development partners (i.e. the United Nations Development Program) which support the PDESC process in order to understand how each actor contributes and to explore the appropriate entry points for PSR. The project findings of the desk review of the PDESC documents for 39 communes were disseminated to USAID Democracy and Governance implementing partners. Meetings were also held with the Regional Development Agencies in the seven (7) intervention zones to better understand how the development of PDESCs is managed, how donors can contribute, and potential entry points for increasing citizen participation. The outcome of the meetings shows that there are different approaches employed by multiple actors, none of which involve citizens. PSR has urged USAID to convene a donor partner meeting so that a common roadmap for the PDSEC process can be established in a manner that will enhance citizens voice and participation in the PDESC development process.

In December, PSR met with the ADRs to discuss how the Community Development Committees can lead commune level involvement in the PDSEC development. They also explored how to engage local authorities and communities in order to provide an avenue for socializing and integrating ICAF-FRAMe® intersectoral findings. Follow-up meetings will be held during the second quarter.

VI. OBJECTIVE 3: EMPOWERING YOUTH AND BUILDING THEIR RESILIENCE TO VIOLENT EXTREMISM

Youth Asset Mapping to Promote Civic Engagement.

Sixty (60) youth from Dire, Timbuktu, Agouni, Bandiagara, Diabaly and Douentza were trained to conduct community asset mapping to promote civic engagement in their communes. Based on the preliminary findings23, 13 young people (7 in Diré; 4 in Timbuktu and 2 in Agouni) selected selling small inexpensive items as livelihoods given that both Timbuktu and Diré are urban trade hubs. Animal fattening as a livelihood is the first choice of Agouni youth as the commune is in a nomadic environment conducive to herding. Youth in this commune are also interested in market gardening despite the unavailability of fertilizers and water. Three (3) other young people, 2 from Diré and 1 from Agouni selected mobile phones and electronic devices sales and repair. The PSR team will work with CECs to present the findings of the mapping to the communal councils so that youth livelihoods deemed viable are included in the PDESC. The mapping tool is included as Annex IV.

23 Additional data on the outcomes will be available once the draft reports from the remaining communes are completed.

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Engaging Youth and their Families Against Violent Extremism

During the quarter, PSR conducted nine (9) trainings on countering and preventing violent extremism (C/PVE). Approximately 409 participants including 181 youth and 111 women were trained. The objective of the training was to build the capacity of local stakeholders to reduce and/or prevent violent extremism. The trainings were conducted using Think Peace’s modules which were developed by them and approved by the Ministry of Religious Affairs24.

The trainings were centered around the following key topics: • Concepts of violent extremism, including the signs of radicalization; • Emerging threats such as the instrumentalization of religion, the presence of radical and terrorist groups, the failure of the government to secure people and their property; • Strategies and responses to prevent and mitigate VE and radicalization; • Situations conducive to violent extremism and terrorism (poor governance, inter- and intra-community conflicts, small arms and light weapons circulation and drug trafficking).

During the trainings PSR provided an overview of the National Strategy to Counter Violent Extremism and Terrorism, which includes five pillars related to prevention, protection, prosecution, response and social cohesion. The national strategy provides a framework for local engagement, particularly in prevention and social cohesion. PSR trained thirty (30) CEC members in Mopti, as well as 90 youth already enrolled in professional education on countering and preventing violent extremism. The training provided the opportunity for PSR to extend its reach for the first time to an in-school population of youth. CVE Training session in Bourem Inaly

“Formal education, similar to informal education, needs to incorporate curricula to prevent violent extremism in learning spaces. Students must be provided with the required civic education and resilience concepts to cope with violent ideologies.” This recommendation came from Allaye Tessougue, an advisor at the Centre d’Animation Pedagogique at the end of training on civic education/citizenship and on the prevention of radicalization and violent extremism in schools in Bankass.

In Agouni, Goundam, Ber and Dire, Community Coordinators conducted the PVE training in local languages of Sonraï, , and Tamasheq. In these four communes, participants shared experiences of abductions, targeted murders, and coercive closure of schools. In Soboundou, the training fostered interaction between the Peuhl, Sonrai, Tamasheq and Bambara communities, who do not always interact positively, thus strengthening their relationships.

24 The Ministry of Religious Affairs is the line ministry charged with the oversight of the National CVE Strategy. Under an agreement with the ministry, PSR consortium partner Think Peace, developed a P/CVE training that has been adapted for use by the PSR project.

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Participants from eight (8) villages and two (2) fractions of the Bourem Inaly commune across Sonrai, Tamasheq and Arab communities were also trained in C/PVE.

Statements from several participants of the training indicate that the growth of violent extremism and terrorism is fostered by the marginalization of a number of ethnic groups, climate change, the circulation of small arms and drugs, the lack of economic opportunities for youth and women, corruption, bad governance and impunity. At the end of the training, participants felt equipped to contribute effectively to sensitizing their communities. The following testimonies suggest that the training was especially relevant within the current deteriorating security situation.

TESTIMONIALS

“I believe that religious leaders need to be more involved during preaches to make young people understand the foundations of peace. There is also a need to strengthen traditional mechanisms that insist on non-violence. But the most important thing is to create jobs for these vulnerable, unemployed vulnerable youth who are risk of enrollment and recruitment by armed groups. Finally, I think that every person could contribute by raising awareness among youth every day on the consequences of violent extremism.”Aliou Ousmane, Hondoubomo, Village advisor in Bourem Inaly

“We women have more to lose than men. Our husbands and children are usually the targets of these armed groups. Our freedom of movement is limited, and our activities suffer as a result. We are committed to widely disseminating the knowledge received during this workshop so that the fight against extremism becomes more general.” Aminatou Abba, Youth (woman) Leader

Moulaye H Zahabi Haidara, member Dire Community Youth Council said: “You know fanaticism is defined as fanatical behavior, that is to say a person who has a passion or an intense admiration for someone or something. Today what we see are sick men fighting for their ideals or even to get rich through violence and even murder. Islam advocates tolerance. Those who claim to defend religion by killing innocent people are seriously mistaken. It is all due to poverty, unemployment and lack of economic opportunities in the communities; if we want to address violent extremism, we must fight against poverty and poor governance.”

“At the beginning of the crisis in my neighborhood, there was a young man who spent the first three months idle. The more the days went by, the stranger he became. He did not talk to his friends anymore. One morning we saw him with one of the armed groups during the period of occupation. Since then, he left the armed groups. However, his communities are rejecting his presence and he cannot find a job because nobody trusts him enough. The community’s attitude may push him to turn to the armed groups again. Fortunately, the community leader regularly conducts sensitization activities in order to facilitate social reintegration. From now on, I will help him.” Chourfa Mohamed Taher Ould Sidi, Agouni

“During the North occupation, a young man from my village joined the armed groups for financial reasons. He followed this group for 8 months. However, the despicable acts he witnessed traumatized and mentally destabilized him. When his mental health deteriorated, the armed groups sent him back to his family. He is now a burden for his parents who are forced to invest in his treatment. After this training we will support him.” Mohamed Abdallah, Community leader

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“I am sincerely happy to have participated in this training. Thanks to PSR, we have a better understanding of the various concepts of violent extremism and are well equipped to fight effectively against radicalization, violent extremism and terrorism. As we have learned in this training, prevention is the best way to fight against these various threats.” Moulay Kalifa Ould Moulaye, CEC President, Agouni

“I think that the word terrorism does not belong to us. It is a creation of France and the United States. I also do not think that there are terrorists in Mali. As far as the word radicalization is concerned, it is a word that has had a great impact in Mali as a result of bad governance. The Malian government has turned its citizens into radicals. As a solution, I call on Westerners to free Mali, and on our leaders to fight against injustice and corruption. These factors and the lack of employment push youth to join armed groups stated Aboubacrine Ag Med Elmoctar, youth leader at the beginning of the training. I think that the government and its partners must mobilize women and girls especially in formal and informal educational facilities to fight violent extremism. As far as I am concerned, I will be an active actor in raising awareness in my community after this training. For me, the factors that push youth to join armed groups are mainly the lack of education and poverty.” Hayatoude Mahamadou Toure, Youth Leader

“I think that everything that is happening in Mali, particularly in the north, is the fault of the authorities. There is no truth in Mali. We all know very well the reasons that push youth to become radicals, rebels and/or terrorists in the North. As an unemployed young man who has no income in a totally remote area almost forgotten by the authorities, if someone proposes to help me by offering opportunities, I will join/agree because I know that I have nothing to lose since my country cannot do anything. In reality, this is what pushes many young people in our areas to join armed groups. To address this problem, I think that NGOs should support job creation. Going forward, I will make sure that my peers are informed and sensitized.” Idar Ag Mahamad Ikna, Youth leader

Sonrai, Tamasheq, Arab and Bozo communities gathered in Bourem to discuss the causes and consequences of violent extremism, radicalization and terrorism, as well as the push and pull factors that drive youth to join armed groups. At the end of the training, participants identified the strategies to combat violent extremism and radicalization.

The following are recommendations that emanated from the training: o Create jobs and youth training centers o Establish mechanisms to fight radicalization o Conduct awareness-raising among youth on the consequences of radicalization and recruitment o Report suspicious persons to the appropriate authorities o Request state continued presence o Train other teachers in preventing violent extremism o Organize debriefing sessions in schools to improve community understanding of violent extremism and encourage government-citizen collaboration. o Require a certain level of education for imams and preachers o Regulate preaching, Koranic schools25 and medersas

25 Informal institutions which provide basic instruction in Islamic religion.

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PSR will award grants to support and follow-up several of the recommendations. During the monthly meetings between the project’s Community Coordinator and the CEC, staff will monitor how training is being applied and its impact in communities. Debating Violent Extremism

During the quarter two public debates were organized and a peace caravan in the communes of Tenenkou, Tessit and Macina. The purpose was to engage communities on their role in preventing violent extremism. At the events, community members discussed violent extremism and radicalization in Tenenkou as the commune is surrounded by areas that are controlled by armed groups. Recommendations from the debate included engaging with traditional leaders to reach vulnerable groups; and, holding conferences in formal and koranic schools to strengthen student’s knowledge about VE26.

The debate in Macina improved the agency and visibility of youth umbrella organizations across the Bambara, Peulh, Bozo and Dogon communities, as they were able to demonstrate their capacities to serve as agents of peace in support of preventing violent extremism. The participation of Muslim and Christian religious leaders in the debate served to underscore the commonalities between the two faiths. Religious leaders are extremely influential and respected members in these two communities whose voices are often heard. During the debates, the leaders shared passages from the Koran and the Bible that call for peace, tolerance, and solidarity.

“According to the teaching we have received on Islam, it is not written anywhere that the prophet asked to attack or fight to convert by force. Jihad was advocated to defend against non-believers who were chasing the prophet and his followers. Another meaning of Jihad is solidarity, charity and sanctification, stated Imam Mambe Tangara. If someone slaps you on one cheek, offer the other cheek also; if it is possible and it depends on you, be at peace with everyone.” Pastor Adama Dabou

Using a peace caravan, youth from Tessit drove through 1827 villages and seven (7) quartiers28 of the commune calling on communities to fight violent extremism. Caravan participants noticed that community members and particularly women did not speak up presumably for fear over their security. Peace caravan in Tessit

26 Places of worship and religious instruction. 27 Ihayawane, Idourfane Haoussa, Oudalan Kawalan I, Eguedech I, Oudalan Kawalan II, Oudalan chagaran I, Oudalan chagaran II, Gré gré, Charamatane, Bellah Hadakatane, Kel Foulane, Imrad I, Imrad II, Bellah Kel Gossi-Ibogolitane Sahada, Eguedech II, Tabakat, Argou, Tessit. 28 Tlouck,Ténéré, Bellah-Fargandi, Marikanga, Téméra, Taborack and Dabey.

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“We must recognize that the issue is very complex given insecurity in the area. “Talking about violent extremism is a very difficult thing right now. Hence, we decided to emphasize youth unemployment. If these young people unconditionally accept to follow these groups, it is because they have nothing to do. My hope is that donors will invest in the youth employment sector. In my opinion, this is the only way out.” Mayor of Tessit.

“When you show me a hole containing gold, before I go in, I have to think about how to get out after extracting that gold. Members of our community must understand that once enrolled, it is difficult to leave. Thus, I find this caravan very interesting because it allowed youth and parents to understand the harms of violent extremism. From now on, each of us is warned and must commit to peace and social cohesion which guarantee development.” Deputy Mayor of Tessit

CROSS-CUTTING

During the reporting period, PSR supported celebrations of the International Peace Day and Mali’s Independence Day through seven (7) grants valued at $18,426. The initiative, dubbed #1Mali1Peace, mobilized women and youth civil society organizations around activities ranging from sports, cultural events to public debates to promote social cohesion.

Grants were award to CBOs and CSOs in Douentza, Ber, Bourem Inaly and Tessalit. Organizations from these areas organized sports tournaments which promoted interaction and fair play among youth across various communities. Grantees also facilitated debates as a means for communities to discuss challenges to and opportunities for peacebuilding and social cohesion. The exchanges provided the space for messaging. In Douentza, stakeholders and other key actors such as the imam of the Grand Mosque, discussed the importance of PVE and the role of youth as agents of peace. In Ber, the local youth coordination brought together community leaders, local authorities and guests from the villages of Zorho, Keidam and Teherdjé during a lunch to discuss the meaning of peace, and social cohesion and ways to enhance understanding and co- existence between communities. In Tessalit, the Assaghsal Association introduced participants to key points of the Algiers Peace Accord. Some participants stated that the word peace has different meanings depending on the context, the individual and the environment. In his introductory remarks, the village chief reminded that the concepts of justice and peace are intertwined because the poor distribution of justice can be a source of conflicts. At the end of the discussion in Bankass, youth participants chanted: “We are brothers and sisters; plant the seeds of peace; I am Dogon, I am Peuhl.”

The women’s association, Alghafiat, meaning peace in Tamashek, mobilized 250 women, representing the Sonrai, Arab, Tamasheq, and Bambara communities around the theme: “Gao Women Mobilizing for Peace.” During the meeting, the third Deputy Mayor of Gao said in her remarks: “We women have not been involved enough in the peace agreement process. It is time that we Gao Women Mobilizing for Peace take our responsibilities because it is our husbands and our children who die on the roads and during the fights. We have an interest in consolidating peace without the distinction of ethnic groups.”

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Gatherings were deemed successful and reinforced the need for increased social cohesion and coexistence. The representative of the Bourem-Inaly village chief stated: “We must be aware of the situation that our communities are experiencing today, by holding hands because together we will achieve the goals desired by everyone.”

Through music, drama, dance, and poetry, PSR grantees called attention to the benefits of peace, and ways to prevent conflict. In Douentza, the theatre troupe Show Time Business, performed a sketch highlighting the role of women in conflict prevention and management. The Taniminak troupe in Ber focused its play on a conflict between herders (Tamasheks) and farmers (Sonrai). The President of the Ber Women's association took the opportunity to advocate for increased involvement in conflict prevention and mitigation and underscored the critical role of women in reconciliation and the search for peace. In Tessalit, young children presented a sketch on the negative impact of conflicts. They called on their elders to stop making weapons talk, and to pursue the path of dialogue. Finally, the Association for Renewal and Local Development in Anefif organized slam and poetry competitions amongst schoolgirls. A duet of two poets chanted: “We must stop creating problems and unite because life is short. Bullets will not solve what dialogue cannot. Children must attend school for a better education. The war leaves behind only orphans and widows.”

The following poetry written by Lalla Walet Tinassene won the Jury prize at the end of the Tessalit poetry competition:

I call on all communities to make peace Because what dialogue cannot solve It's not the tips of the guns that'll solve it. It's been seven years since we lost The most precious thing in the world Namely peace, I implore the almighty To make sure we find peace Because your body doesn't rest if you lose it The Reign of Peace. Dear relatives, friends and brothers look All the other states are so beautiful 1Mali1Peace in Anefif Beautiful, full of greenery except ours. You must be jealous of other states To bring peace to yours.

Given the project’s emphasis on grant activities, the #1Mali1Peace campaign allowed PSR to assess systems and identify lessons learned that could be scaled, replicated or used to improve future awards and activities. These include larger diffusion of solicitations to civil society and associations identified during community engagement during start up; sustained follow up with other implementing partners to identify potential grantees; and the need for substantive technical assistance to applicants as well as additional grants and monitoring and evaluation staff. A complete list of grant awards is included as Annex III.

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PSR received more than 200 applications in response to RFAs issued for Segou, Mopti, Timbuktu, and Gao. Evaluation of the offers were underway by the end of the quarter; awards are anticipated to be made during Quarter 2.

Approval of substitute communes. USAID provided approval on November 12th to replace the communes of Salam and Taoudenit with two new communes: Achamour and Touwal. In quarter 2, foundational activities for these new communes will be launched.

VII. MONITORING AND EVALUATION

Third party monitoring. PSR is working collaboratively and in coordination with USAID’s implementing partner, Management Systems International (MSI) which holds the evaluation services contract for the USAID Mission. MSI launched a Third-Party Monitoring service for the project and conducted training for staff who will provide support for monitoring and evaluation.

Data Quality Assessments. USAID conducted Data Quality Assessments (DQA) in Mopti and Djenne communes to identify the strengths and weakness in how PCP collects, analyzes, shares, and learns from data.

VIII. OPERATIONS

During the quarter, several staff changes and additions were made to the program: 1. A new driver was hired for the project; he is the 2nd driver and will be based in Bamako. 2. A new Regional Program Manager for Mopti came aboard on November 1. 3. A new project director was appointed from Creative’s headquarters in Washington, D.C. to provide leadership support and oversight to the project. 4. A new program associate was hired and brought on-board. She will be based in Creative’s HQ, Washington, D.C. and will provide back stop support to the project/team. 5. And finally, a candidate that had been identified and selected for the M&E Officer position declined the offer following approval from USAID. Recruitment efforts are currently underway to identify new applicants.

Creative’s leadership team, including the Senior Vice President for Communities in Transition, Director, Governance and Community Resilience and PSR Senior Project Director, traveled to Bamako to the participate in the presentation of ICAF-FRAMe® intersectoral analysis at the US Mission and assist with the integration of findings into the Year 2 work plan. Creative also deployed a consultant during the reporting period to assist with grant development and reporting.

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During the period of December 2-7, 2019 Creative Associates International fielded two consultants to provide communication support to the PSR team for reporting and social media development. Technical assistance included a three-day training on writing and storytelling and two (2) days in the field to produce a short film based on PSR past activity in the commune of Segou. At the end of the week, staff felt they better understand the information required to develop robust reports and specifically, the importance of using examples and testimonies to Creative-sponsored communications training support/illustrate project achievements.

In collaboration with the PSR communications staff, the consultants produced a short film29 highlighting how teachers, trained by the project, are contributing to the prevention of violent extremism in their communes by using their influence in the classroom to educate young men and women on the importance of resisting violent extremism.

IX. CONSTRAINTS AND CHALLENGES

Armed groups and banditry are critical threats to staff mobility and safety. In some locations, the security situation prolongs travel time. In Tarkint, for example, the Community Coordinator is required to use the longer Bourem-Gao-Tarkint road instead of the direct Bourem-Tarkint route. It now takes four (4) days for PSR staff to travel before reaching Tenenkou through the Sévare- Ségou-Macina-Tenenkou road instead of travelling by the river from Mopti to Tenenkou, which is shorter and takes one day. Heightened insecurity in the Menaka region prevented the Regional Program Manager from traveling for program oversight. He instead was forced to provide remote oversight. As an additional mitigation measures, PSR staff used public transportation and had to rent vehicles owned by local residents from the intervention region to reduce the risk of attacks on perceived “outsiders” profiting from opportunities instead of local businesses. Other mitigation measures being explored include holding activities in a safer locations, such as in the commune/cercle’s capital; close scanning of the operating environment; and approval by the project’s Security Manager for all staff movements.

Grants making: The project awards grants to several Malian community and civil society local organizations to carry out activities to advance program objectives. Unfortunately, most of the organizations have limited capacity to complete the application forms and to development viable grants. As such, it takes an extensive amount of time to provide hands-on support to applicants. This support includes following up solicitations with in-person sessions to explain the purpose and process for application. Following the SMART training, a specialized training to PSR regional program managers and community coordinators on how to work with applicants during the solicitation process was conducted and a Grants Frequently Asked Questions has also been drafted a to serve as a resource guide for PSR staff.

29 https://vimeo.com/386547892/97de5bd75e

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X. COORDINATION AND PARTNERSHIP

The first quarter of FY2020 provided an opportunity to deeply engage with key government actors and other important stakeholders. The PSR team participated in important platforms that brought together humanitarian, development and peacebuilding actors enhancing the project’s visibility. During the next quarter, these fora will be used to disseminate findings of the intersectoral analysis. Such an approach will ensure Collaborative, Learning, and Adaptation and cross-fertilization between PSR activities and those of other actors. During the reporting period, PSR attended two meetings involving the regional development agencies, on November 5-6 and on December 1. The second meeting focused on the Presentation of PSR’s annual report and FRAMe® intersectoral findings to line review of six (6) PDESCs for , Konna, , ministry Diafarabé, Togueré-Coumbé and Tenenkou, the preparation of which were funded by the United Nations Development Program. Pursuant to its Sequencing, Layering and Integration plan, PSR will coordinate with SNGP and other projects/donors to support robust citizen participation in the PDESC development process.

In October, a briefing was held with the National Early Warning Center on the outcomes of a mission to Niono following the murder of the commissioner by protesters. The main objective was to identify joint and/or complementary activities to help calm the situation and address grievances that were or could become sources of conflict in this commune. The timing of interventions was not deemed ripe. PSR continued to monitor the situation.

On December 3, members of the project team attended the Social Cohesion Working Group cluster meeting in Mopti. PSR will use this space as another avenue to disseminate and socialize the intersectoral analysis. On December 10, PSR hosted the Community Resilience in Mali/Mopti (COREM) meeting. USAID and PSR staff also met with the Governor’s Chief of Staff. Discussions focused on the volatile security situation, the regional development strategy, the Plan de Sécurisation Intégré des Régions du Centre and the continued coerced closure of schools by armed extremist groups.

As previously noted, members of the USAID and PSR teams met with the Minister of Territorial Administration and Decentralization. In addition to the presentation of the ICAF-FRAMe® Intersectoral findings, PSR also presented its annual achievements for FY2019. After the presentation, much of the discussion centered around the degenerating security situation in the Center and North. The Minister emphasized the importance of engaging with armed groups outside of the current dialogue process in order to create a conducive environment for the state to provide basic social services. According to the Minister, “You only engage in dialogue with your enemies.” He also shared the dialogue that was being had with militias, which was initiated by the mayors of Farimake and , Mopti region. As a next step, PSR and MTAD staff will

MALI PEACEBUILDING, STABILIZATION, & RECONCILIATION QUARTERLY REPORT 1 FY2020 25 hold technical meetings to explore avenues for enhanced coordination and collaboration and to further engage on the regional ICAF-FRAMe® regional debriefings.

XI. LESSONS LEARNED

ICAF and FRAMe® Assessments

The ICAF and the FRAMe® assessments provided valuable insights and validated the methodology used in conducting the assessments. Both WANEP and ULSHB highlighted the following during their debrief with the project team.

• The assessments were appropriate for Malian society such as the ability for single identity groups to meet for discussion; • The focus group methodology created a conducive environment for people to express themselves freely which was especially important for youth and women and considered the varying perceptions of participants; • FRAMe® questions were comprehensive in terms of governance; • The community’s reaction to the process was positive and members believe it will be important to work with the Councils to determine how citizens can play a different and enhanced role in governance. The elected officials need to include citizens. • Three methodological challenges—FRAMe and ICAF: o The FRAMe® focus groups are quite lengthy, and the University suggested breaking the sessions down, bringing people together to discussion 2-3 dimensions at each session. o While the FRAMe® instrument is adjusted to reflect local terminologies and languages, it may need to have a review of culture sensitivity. o WANEP and University leaders suggested the addition of a cultural and social assessment.

Grants making

Given limited capacity of civil society organizations and community-based associations to complete grant applications and develop viable grants, PSR must assist all applicants to complete the application forms and to develop viable activities. Further, as most applicants do not have a street address, information required to complete a DUNS application, pursuant to the approved Grants Manual, it is necessary to request a blanket waiver for this purpose. And, given limited organizational resources of applicants, it is necessary to provide a minimum level of overhead in each grant award.

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XII. SUCCESS STORY Mali PSR Influential Actors Promote Peacebuilding

Building trust between the Mali Peacebuilding, Stabilization and Reconciliation (PSR) staff and the 426 northern and central target communes where interventions are being conducted was crucial to the project’s start-up. Prior to the launching of the Mali PSR project, citizens in the target communes--which are fraught with conflict--viewed outsiders with suspicion having felt like they were abandoned by both the state and the international community. In order to overcome this challenge, PSR staff worked vigilantly to cultivate relationships at all levels to identify trusted community leaders to serve as advisors in the successful implementation of the PSR project and influencers who would assist in leading change. Community Engagement Committees (CEC) for each commune were established with these stakeholders. Members of the CEC were selected based on their credibility within the community and on their ability to influence the most pressing peacebuilding and governance issues at the local level. The CEC’s serve as a consultative body with having strategic oversight of PSR project activities and play a role in advising PSR staff, local officials, and citizens of their respective commune. The CECs also mobilize citizens to participate in project activities and to facilitate community dialogues using the skills acquired from PSR-led trainings on conflict prevention and mitigation and preventing violent extremism. During the selection process, PSR prioritized the inclusion of women and youth to ensure that these groups sufficiently represent and reflect the diversity within the communes. In total, of the 417 CEC members, 114 are women and 55 are youth. To date, CECs have made significant contributions to advancing peace in their communes. For example, in June 2019, the CEC in Bandiagara worked with elected officials and local radio stations to dispel rumors that Dogon hunters planned to expel Peuhls from the commune. Hamidou Diallo, President of the CEC and the Community Youth Council of Ouattagouna, made a point to express the following: “The training in conflict prevention and mitigation conducted by PSR is timely for all those who know the volatile security situation in the commune of Ouattagouna. We will use our grassroots community organizations, places of worship and even our schools to ensure that key points of the training are relayed. The return to social cohesion in our commune requires such capacity building.” Similarly, Youssouf Coulibaly, President of the Douentza CEC commended the establishment of the CEC’s with the following statement: “The community orientation sessions gave us the necessary tools to commit ourselves to peace in the commune of Douentza. What is interesting is that the Mamoutou Bah, Imam solution comes from ourselves, the community! It is an innovative approach that in Pelengana stated the proverb: “Sigi ka fo ye I recommend to other partners.” damou”, which The CECs are not only essential to the implementation of Mali PSR’s translated to: Dialogue activities, but ultimately the key to establishing sustainable social cohesion is the path to peace. and inclusion.

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Annex I: Quarter 1 FY2020 Summary of project activities and targets reached

Activity Number of Number of Men Number of Women Number of Youth30 communes

Conflict Prevention and Management Training 10 187 92 89

Training on Preventing violent Extremism 9 117 111 181

P2P Dialogues 5 148 61 80

Public debates 2 23 11 51

Peace caravan 1 20 5 5

#1Mali1Peace Grants 7 717 599 1217

TOTAL 1212 879 1623

30 Youth include young men and women ages 18 – 45 years old.

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ANNEX II: PSR Commune Classification

Score Score Status Status Region Cercle Commune on on 12/19 09/19 30/09/19 31/12/19

Mopti Bandiagara Bandiagara Conflict Conflict 14 14

Mopti Bankass Bankass Buffer Buffer 17 16

Mopti Bankass Ouonkoro Conflict Conflict 14 14

Mopti Bankass Segue Buffer Buffer 15 18

Mopti Djenné Djenné Buffer Buffer 19 17

Mopti Djenné Togue-Mourari Conflict Conflict 8 12

Mopti Douentza Douentza Buffer Buffer 15 17

Mopti Koro Dinangourou Conflict Conflict 11 11

Mopti Koro Dioungani Conflict Conflict 13 11

Mopti Koro Koro Buffer Buffer 19 21

Mopti Mopti Konna Buffer Buffer 17 16

Mopti Mopti Mopti Buffer Buffer 18 18

Mopti Ténenkou Tenenkou Buffer Buffer 18 18

Mopti Youwarou Youwarou Buffer Buffer 18 15

Ségou Macina Macina Buffer Buffer 20 20

Ségou Macina Matomo Buffer Buffer 17 18

Ségou Macina Tongue Buffer Buffer 19 19

Ségou Niono Diabaly Buffer Conflict 16 14

Ségou Niono Niono Buffer Conflict 18 14

Ségou Segou Segou Resilient Resilient 27 26

Ségou Segou Pelengana Resilient Resilient 25 24

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Score Score Status Status Region Cercle Commune on on 12/19 09/19 30/09/19 31/12/19

Ségou Segou Markala Resilient Resilient 22 22

Gao Ansongo Ansongo Resilient Resilient 23 23

Gao Ansongo Tessit Conflict Conflict 14 13

Gao Ansongo Ouattagouna Conflict Conflict 14 14

Gao Bourem Bourem Buffer Buffer 20 21

Gao Bourem Tarkint Conflict Conflict 13 14

Gao Bourem Bamba Buffer Buffer 20 19

Gao Gao Gao Resilient Resilient 27 26

Gao Gao Sony Aliber Resilient Resilient 24 24

Kidal Kidal Kidal Conflict Conflict 12 14

Kidal Kidal Essouk Conflict Conflict 12 14

Kidal Kidal Anéfif Conflict Conflict 12 14

Kidal Tessalit Tessalit Buffer Buffer 16 18

Ménaka Andéramboukane Andéramboukane Conflict Conflict 12 14

Ménaka Tidermène Alata Conflict Conflict 14 14

Ménaka Menaka Menaka Buffer Buffer 18 21

Taoudénit Bou-Djebeha Agouni Buffer Conflict 16 14

Timbuktu Diré Diré Buffer Buffer 19 18

Timbuktu Goundam Goundam Resilient Resilient 24 22

Timbuktu Niafunké Soboundou Buffer Conflict 17 14

Timbuktu Timbuktu Bourem Inaly Buffer Resilient 21 22

Timbuktu Timbuktu Timbuktu Buffer Resilient 21 27

Timbuktu Timbuktu Ber Buffer Buffer 19 20

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Annex III: List of PSR Grant Awards October 1 - December 31, 2019

Location Grantee Grants Grants Number of Activity CFA USD Participants Douentza Alliance pour 2,203,950 4,007 1,450 Conference, la Veille sports and Citoyenne cultural AVC events Tessalit Assaghsal 1,136,500 2,066 84 Conference, sports and cultural events Anefif ARDL 1,035,000 1,882 75 Conference, poetry and tree planting Gao Alghafiat 1,188,250 2,160 250 Conference debates and tree planting Bankass Conseil Local 1,883,000 3,424 270 Conference, de la Jeunesse sports and civic education activities Ber Coordination 1,435,000 2,609 104 Sports and des Jeunes de cultural Ber events Bourem Jama Foo 1,252,500 2,277 300 Conference, Inaly Annya Foo sports and cultural events 10,134,200 $18,426 2,533

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