Continuing Committee On Common Witness  (CCCW)

Consultation 2006

Empowering Peace Building

CONFERENCE ON PEACE CONSOLIDATION IN THE MANO RIVER BASIN
"Blessed are the Peace Makers, for they shall be called children of God."

Monrovia, LIBERIA
23-25 January, 2006

COMMUNIQUÉ

We the people of the Mano River Basin represented by other faiths, the Inter-Religious Councils of the three member states (Liberia, Sierra Leone and Guinea), Christian Councils and other Christian Bodies in the Sub-Region, Civil Society Organizations, Institutions of higher learning in West Africa, met at the Corina Hotel on Tubman Boulevard, Sinkor, Monrovia, Liberia from January 23 - 25, 2006 to discuss issues concerning the Consolidation of Peace in the Mano River Basin under the auspices of the Liberian Council of Churches (LCC) and the Fellowship of Christian Councils and Churches in West Africa (FECCIWA), supported by Church World Service (CWS) and the U.S. Catholic Mission Association (USCMA) on the theme:

At the opening of this dynamic dialogue, we observed a moment of silence in recognition of the major role played by Archbishop Michael K. Francis through his advocacy in the Liberian Peace Process. We also observed a moment of silence for the victims of war.

Statements were made by:
Rev. Jimmy Diggs, Chairman, Peace and Reconciliation Commission/LCC, Mr. Benjamin D. Lartey, General Secretary, Liberian Council of Churches, Bishop Sumoward E. Harris, President, Liberian Council of Churches, Mr. Baffour D. Amoa, Secretary General, Fellowship of Christian Councils and Churches In West Africa (FECCIWA), Rev. John McCullough, Executive Director, Church World Service, Sis. Rosanne Rustemeyer, Past Executive Director U.S. Catholic Mission Association, Mr. Alimamy P. Koroma proxy for Bishop Mvume H. Dandala, General Secretary, All Africa Conference of Churches, Mr. Godfrey Rudd, Representative, European Commission/Union and a Keynote Address delivered by His Excellency Dr. Joseph N. Boakai, Vice-President of the Republic of Liberia.

As participants, we avidly listened to the presentations, panel discussions and noted issues of concern to serve as basis for dialogue with the presenters and panelists. The debate stimulated by this dialogue enabled us to formulate relevant ideas, suggestions, or concepts for the Consolidation of Peace in Mano River Basin. We, the participants, made significant contributions to the formulation of these ideas during group work and group discussions.

We acknowledge and appreciate the presence of the Vice-President of the Republic of Liberia His Excellency Joseph N. Boakai and the fraternal greetings he brought from Her Excellency Madam Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf, President of the Republic.  We acknowledge our commonalities in the Sub-Region and affirm the need for a Sub- Regional approach in addressing the challenges of the Sub-Region. We wish to applaud the roles being played the various Christian Councils and Inter-Religious Councils in the Mano River Basin.

We further acknowledge the Church World Service, United States Catholic Mission Association and the Continuing Committee on Common Witness for their support to this historical Peace Consolidation Conference.  We wish to congratulate the government and people of Liberia for their just completed National Electoral Process that led to the election of the first female President not only of Liberia but the whole of Africa in the person of Her Excellency Madam Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf.

We call on the respective governments of the Mano River Basin to be concerned about the needs of their people and to endeavor to commit themselves to good neighborliness and cooperation which is a source for lasting peace, good governance, reconciliation and development in the Sub-Region.  We urge the religious and traditional leaders to continue playing their role of being pro-active on social issues and to use their God-given mandate and capacities in their respective Countries.  We appeal to the people of Côte d'Ivoire to reason together, respect their Peace Agreement and work towards peace.

We wish to thank the international community for their support to the resolution of the conflicts in Sierra Leone, Liberia and Côte d'Ivoire. Since the peace in Sierra Leone and Liberia are fragile and democracy in Liberia is new, we solicit the continuous support of the International Community for the various aspects that consolidate peace in the Sub- Region.

Corina Hotel, Monrovia, Liberia this 24th day of January, 2006.

Signatories for and on behalf of the Consultation:
1.  Bishop Sumoward E. Harris              2.  Baffour D. Amoa
     Liberian Council of Churches                  FECCIWA

3. Rosanne Rustemeyer, SSND           4.  Rev. John McCullough
    U.S. Catholic Mission Association         Church World Service        

Report on the Conference on Peace Consolidation in the Mano River Basin
January 23-25, 2006

A Conference on Peace Consolidation in the Mano River Basin was successfully held January 23-25, 2006 under the auspices of the Liberian Council of Churches (LCC) and Fellowship of Christian Councils and Churches in West Africa (FECCIWA), with the support of Church World Service & U.S. Catholic Mission Association.

1. Official Opening Ceremony:

 The Official Opening Program commenced with Singspiration by the delegates and special guests, followed by prayers which were said by Rev. Andrew J. Karnley, Apostolic Administrator of the Catholic Archdiocese of Monrovia, and Sheikh Mohammed Komara of the National Muslim Council of Liberia.

Rev. Jimmy Diggs, Chairman, Peace & Reconciliation Commission, LCC, made the welcome and introductory remarks. He outlined the patterns of conflict development in the Mano River Basin and the peace-making processes that had followed and are still in progress, including the current Conference.  A formal presentation of the Presiding Officer of Session, Bishop Sumoward E. Harris of the Lutheran Church and President, LCC was made by Brother Benjamin D. Lartey, General Secretary, LCC.

The Presiding Officer then invited Brother Benjamin D. Lartey, General Secretary of the LCC, to give the Conferences Overview. Brother Lartey expressed thanks to the organizers of the Conference for allowing the LCC and FECCIWA to host the meeting. He then observed that it was regrettable that the Religious Community is only remembered during crisis time, and forgotten at peace time. The Secretary General stated that many persons and organizations have been honored for their roles in bringing peace to Liberia, yet the Religious Community has not been remembered, when it led the quest for peace. He then recognized the very significant role the Religious Community in the Mano River Basin has played in seeking peace.

Brother Lartey then outlined the roles played by the Religious Community in conflict resolution and peace building.  He stated that the Conference would examine issues of conflicts in the region and map out a way forward to ensure that peace is sustained and consolidated. Further that a Plan of Action will be formulated by Liberia, Sierra Leone and Guinea for implementation.

Bishop Sumoward E. Harris, in his statement, emphasized the need for peace, good governance, good neighborliness, human resource development and education for they are factors indispensable to peace consolidation. He stated that peace in Liberia cannot be sustained without peace in the neighboring countries of Sierra Leone, Guinea and Côte d'Ivoire. The Bishop concluded that the Conference was timely after Liberia's election.

A peace song was offered by Evangelist Evelyn W. Allison, LCC, followed by a monologue: "Mano River is a must" by Flomo Theatre. In the monoloque, the Mano River Basin was personified as a mother in whom she addressed and lamented on her three children, namely: Sierra Leone, Guinea, and Liberia to live and work in peace and stop fighting and called on all persons to work for peace.

Remarks were made as follows by the below personalities:
1.  Mr. Baffour D. Amoa, Secretary General, Fellowship of Christian Councils and Churches in West Africa. He called for observance and prayer for Archbishop Michael K. Francis. A prayer was offered by Bishop Sumoward E. Harris. Mr. Amoa brought greetings from FECCIWA, and outlined the role his organization has played in the Liberian electoral process by offering training to electoral workers. He urged the need to preserve the peace in Liberia through the following means: dialogue, hard work, consultations, advocacy against the proliferation of small arms, etc. The Secretary General thanked the Vice-President of Liberia for honoring the invitation to the Conference, and other international and national partners for attending the conference. Finally, he lauded the significant role the Liberian Council of Churches continues to play in the interest of the Liberian people and the Sub-Region.

2.  Rev. Dr. John S. McCullough, Executive Director, Church World Service, referred to Liberia as "Liberated and Freed." He recollected his organization's difficult journey to Liberia to identify with the Liberian Christian Community in the midst of crisis. He observed that problems still exist in Liberia despite the liberation, thus there must be a construction of new ways rather than war, planning of new strategies for peace in Liberia to move to a new level. He outlined education, security and job development among priorities for this new level.

3.   Sister Rosanne Rustemeyer, Former Executive Director, USCMA, prayed for trusting hearts for the Conference delegates, and stated that her organization was happy to work with church leaders in the Region on the consolidation of peace. She then pledged her organization's support to the work in the Region. After her remarks, she was presented a certificate for faithful services by Rev. Dr. John McCullough of Church World Service.

4.  Dr. Togba Nah Tipoteh/Alliance for Peace & Democracy sang a solo entitled, "Peace for All" as his remark.

5.   Geoffrey Rudd, Representative, European Union, called for a strong civil society movement within the Mano River Basin to help keep government in check and balance. Mr. Rudd described the quest for peace as a self-initiative for every group of people and Liberia is no an exception. He boldly said that the Region was not paralyzed by war as perceived by many, but paralyzed by people who have not held to their doctrinal principles found in their Holy Books (Bible & Koran).

6.  The Presiding Officer then called on Mr. Peter Z. Kamei, General Secretary, YMCA-Liberia, to introduce the Keynote Speaker, His Excellency Ambassador Joseph N. Boakai. Mr. Kamei described the Vice-President as a Deacon in the Baptist Church, a family man and a humanitarian/social worker.

7.  The Keynote Speaker, His Excellency Ambassador Joseph N. Boakai, expressed gratitude to the LCC for the invitation. He then brought greetings from Her Excellency Dr. Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf, President of Liberia. The Vice-President stated that his address would center on the Conference theme: "Blessed Are the Peace Makers for They Shall Be Called the Children of God."

He defined peace as follows:
*   A universal heart beat of all people
*   An indispensable component of socio-economic frame work
*   As God's institution of common ground for resolving conflicts and co-existence as equals for those who become enemies in a given society
*   Peace is a result that we are our brothers' keepers

Basic facts were as follows:
*   The struggle for existence, power, pursuit of supremacy, devoid of morale tenants makes war possible
*   We must insist on a resolve to create a world free violence and hatred
*   When peace is attained and efficiency is created opportunities are also created
*   Peace-making requires our entire being, mind, body and soul, and the essence of our humanity
*   Peace is not just the absence of conflict, but also the absence of the threat of conflict as well

In concluding, he said that war begins in the minds and so is peace, and that we must see peace-making as a worthy obligation. He finally committed the Government of Liberia to executing the Resolution for Peace which will come out of the Conference and formally declared the Conference opened.

PRESENTATIONS   AT CONFERENCE

Presentations were made by several persons as follows:

1   Mr. Baffour D. Amoa, Secretary General, Fellowship of Christian Councils & Churches in West Africa, made a presentation on the topic: "The Dynamics of Faith in the Peace Efforts in the Mano River Basin / Conference Objectives and Expectations"

He defined the Mano River Basin as Liberia, Sierra Leone, and Guinea. He identified dominant demographic factors in the Mano River Basin as the age group of 40 and below as well as adherents of three faith traditions: Christianity, Islam, and African Traditional Religion.  Mr. Amoa further elaborated on the political strategies of exploitation of religion and underscored the need for genuine faith, patriotism and nationalism. He stated that inter-faith rivalry initiated among youth has resorted to antagonism with catastrophic consequences. He then emphasized that sentiments of tribalism have always inflamed the hearts of the youth.

The Secretary General of FECCIWA stated that the civil wars in the Mano River Basin were caused by dubious messages to the youth by selfish, greedy and ambitious people who represented a small percentage of the population. He declared that the worst form of exploitation was the adoption of children and then drugging and arming them.

Objectives of the Conference:
*   Sharing of case studies
*   Small groups suggestions for action
*   Inter-Religious Council's role
*   Information sharing

Expectations from the Conference:
*   Fresh ideas for Peace Consolidation in the Mano River Basin
*   Suggested programmes and projects that support peace
*   Utilization of experience of successful peace efforts in the region

2.  Rev. William R. Tolbert, III, Regional Director, World Conference of Religions for Peace, made a presentation on the topic: "Case Study on the Mano River Basin."  He outlined the following:
*   Initiatives for peace carried out by the International Community (UN, ECOWAS, EU, IMF, World Bank, etc.)
*   Time for the Sub-Region to develop her own plan and initiatives
*   Pointed out cross-border trafficking of conflicts, arms and other vices as major sources of trouble in the Sub-Region
*   He stated that there was no need to relax with the Liberia peace process because there is still the existence of arms in the interior and other places
*   He also underscored the role of the Inter-Religious Community which is often called on during crises and forgotten during peace time.
*   The need to promote good governance and respect for the rule of law and human rights, the lack of which have brought most of the conflicts in the Region

The following ways forward were suggested:
*   Religious leaders must play proactive role in engaging governments for peace consolidation and initiate programmes for sustainability
*   Call on the international community to play positive role and identify the source of gun running in the Sub-Region
*   The devastated social institutions must be restored through funding and support
*   The Sub-Region should go beyond parochial and ethnic interest for national agenda
*   The Sub-Region must adopt our own millennium and development goals

He concluded by saying that: "By one, a tree is planted; by many an orchard is planted."

A  Panel discussion then followed. The Panelists were:
1.   Dr. Jonathan Taylor, Bethel World Outreach Ministries
2.   Rev. Robert M. Karloh, National Ethnic Reconciliation Conference
3.   Mr. Peter Z. Kamei, YMCA-Liberia

Rev. Robert M. Karloh opened the panel discussion by propounding on the Dynamics of Faith," whose
core issues are:
*   Who are the manipulators of the youth?
*   Was there a religious manipulation?
*   The ethnicity of the conflict in Liberia and the role regional leaders played in manipulating the Region to gain power
*   The betrayal of trust among mediating groups. For example: Samuel K. Doe, Former President of Liberia, died in the buffer zones of the Economic Community Monitoring Group and made Mr. Charles G. Taylor, Former National Patriotic Front of Liberia Rebel Leader / Former President of Liberia a skeptic with little trust in the Organization.

In concluding, he suggested the need to detect, identify and monitor the interest of powerful groups and the ability to address them, for they usually turn to become a manipulating factor.

Dr. Jonathan Taylor elaborated on the following:
*   That the borders of the Sub-Region are porous and facilitate the spreading of conflict quickly due to family and ethnic ties.
*   The lack of good governance and disregard of human needs were among factors of aggressive response resulting in war.
*   That religious groups must become proactive and peace education to the youth must become a national agenda as a way forward.

Mr. Peter Z. Kamei said that:
*   We are more tribalistic and religious than nationalistic.
*   Governments in the Sub-Region attempt to control civil societies and demand groups' loyalty.
*   The Churches lack aggressive Sunday School education to both youth and adults in order to share those values that are necessary.
*   A generational rift/gap has developed between youth and adults.

He concluded by saying that attending to the youth for positive engagement is a way forward for the consolidation and sustaining of peace in the Sub-Region.

During the question and answer period, the following agreements were reached:
-   We must nurture dependence and inter-dependence with other communities.
-   There is a need to redefine women's role in our religious groups and societies.
-   A bridge must be built between women's and religious groups.
-   Religious groups were not considered as part of the civil society movements.
-   A common identity was necessary to be translated into peace consolidation.
-   The international manipulators and arm traffickers should be identified.
-   Youth should become part of every decision-making process in communities and State.

The following points were also agreed upon as to how peace consolidation can be successful within the Sub-Region:
-   Identification of the causes of conflicts and conflict areas.
-   Religious groups must become advocacy groups on government.
-   Identify structural violence and attack it.
-   Religious community must identify issues not addressed by the Truth & Reconciliation Commission.
-   Religious groups should help in building trust and confidence in the society.
-   Religious groups and governments should initiate programs for trauma healing and reconciliation.

After the question and answer period a delegate of Guinea outlined the following:
-   He spoke of the spread of the Liberian civil war in the countries of the Sub-Region.
-   He observed that in Guinea youth were also used in the rebel conflicts in defending their mother land.
-   There was always trouble in the forest region of Guinea along the borders of the Mano River Basin.
-   He saw the need more than ever before to make peace and bring happiness to the Region and then pray for Gods bountiful blessings on the Conference.

DAY TWO began with a devotion led by Rev. William D. Brown, Inter-Religious Council of Liberia. Rev. William K. Headley, U.S. Catholic Mission Association  served as Moderator for the Morning Session.

Presentation I  - Rev. Christopher W. Toe, Secretary General, Inter-Religious Council of Liberia, made a presentation on the "The Role of the Inter-Religious Council of Liberia in the Peace Process."  He outlined the following:
-   The pattern of religious development in the Mano River Basin: Christianity, Islam, and the African Traditional Religion.
-   The establishment of Inter-Religious Council of Liberia was due to the civil crisis.
-   He attributed the 1997 elections to the efforts of the IRCL and pointed out the efforts made for disarmament prior to elections.
-   Intervention of government manipulation of ethnic and religious groups.
-   Acknowledged and appreciated the difficult role played by the Economic Community Monitoring Group in bringing peace to Liberia.

Achievements: 
-   Intervention in ethnic crisis in affected counties.
-   Facilitated peace process among warring factions.
-   Signatories to many peace agreements.
-   Winner of the "Desmond Tutu" 1995 Peace Award of the All Africa Conference of Churches.
-   Help to provide relief services to war affected communities.
-   Peacefully mediated in the October 2004 fracas relative to Inter-Religious violence in Monrovia.
-   He expressed gratitude to the international partners for their support.

After this presentation, the Moderator called for a brief  time for acquaintance and interactions, and during this period, entertained questions and comments. The following were focused:
-   Findings on mediation in ethnic crisis in affected counties; why were the Mandingoes in the midst of all counties with conflicts?
   Ethnic conflict resolution had been difficult and needed time due to complexity posted by inter-marriage and fraternal betrayal.
-   Reference to Liberia as "Founded on Christian Principles" was offensive to the Muslims because it deprived other faiths.
-   The issue of  "Liberian Christian Principles" provoked other comments too.
-   It was suggested Legislature amend certain phrases to appease other faiths.
-   A representative of the Christian Council of Guinea shared the Guinean experience and said that Guinea was dominated by Islam. Christians made up of 5% and yet live happily and silently. He said although the government recognized both Christians and Muslims, only Muslims were given national attention by allocation of ministries and subsidy. The Christians were left living by hard work and did not complain.

Presentation II - Rev. Osman Jesse Fornah, Representative, Inter-Religious Council of Sierra Leone made a presentation on the role of IRCSL in the Peace Process in Sierra Leone.  Below are the roles outlined:
-   He began by giving the history of the IRCSL dating to 1997 as initiated by World Conference of Religions for Peace.
-   Said that war in the Sub-Region had left us with lots to think about.
-   Disclosed the fact that religions were held in high esteem in the Region and that such factor needs to be well structured and supervised.
-   The IRCSL was a formidable structure that had helped to maintain a national and regional collaborative network.
-   The IRCSL has become the voice of the voiceless in Sierra Leone

Achievements:
-   Provided relief to help curtail looting
-   Condemned the undemocratic takeover by the Revolutionary United Front (RUF) rebels.
-   Helped in civic education during the peace process.
-   Played key role in the establishment and operation of the Truth & Reconciliation Commission (TRC).
-   He disclosed that Sierra Leonean women played a proactive role at all levels by going into the bush    to meet with rebel leaders for the sake of peace.

He closed his presentation by outlining suggestions for sustaining peace in the Mano River Basin as follows:
-   We must recognize the need to put stop to war.
-   Religious leaders should become non-partisans in politics.
-   Religious leaders should always engage Government for good governance.

During the acquaintance and interactions period, questions and comments focused on:
-   That illiteracy was a major factor in the spread of violence.
-   The problem of religious intolerance did not exist in Sierra Leone and that all Inter-Religious meetings were held on neutral grounds.
-   Mr. Benjamin D. Lartey mentioned that the Inter-Religious Council of Liberia rejected the nomination of its President to be Chairman of the Transitional Legislative Assembly at the Accra, Ghana Peace Conference in order to remain neutral and credible.
-   The Inter-Religious Council of Sierra Leone and the Council of Churches in Sierra Leone suggested that the trial of former President Charles G. Taylor of Liberia be carried to the International Court in the Hague rather than in neighboring Sierra Leone. Their concerns centered on the security of the Region.

Presentation III - Rev. Willie Carr, Representative, Gambia Christian Council, made a presentation based on the Gambia Experience."  These points were presented:
-   Islam was the dominant Religion in Gambia.
-   Muslim kids went to Church/ Christian Schools and learn the Bible.
-   Both the Supreme Councils of Islam and the Christian Council were recognized by government.
-   They evaluated and approved all plans for establishment of new churches and mosques.
-   There was respect for co-religious existence at all levels with equal distribution of air-time on national radio station(s).
-   Muslims and Christians participated in religious rituals and festivals together and executed joint social programs.
-   There had been only one problem. That is, scholars from Libya tried to impose veils in Christian schools. This attempt was condemned by members of the Inter-Religious Council of Gambia and was finally laid to rest.

It was also made known during the acquaintance and interactions period that the problem of inter-marriage between Christians and Muslims in Gambia was visible and those involved adhered to the norms and values of both religions.

Presentation IV - Mr. Alimamy P. Koroma, of the Eminent Persons Ecumenical Programs for Peace in Africa made a presentation on the experience of EPEPPA.   He outlined the following:
-   He began by thanking the people of Liberia for the election of the first female President in Africa
-   He observed that the creation of the environment for peace in the three countries was the only factor worth celebrating, not just the Liberian peace.
-   He disclosed that the All Africa Conference of Churches /World Council of Churches /Church World Service were the initiators of EPEPPA.
-   He then outlined the process of selection and the role of an Eminent Person in the Program.
-   He observed that sometimes there existed competition, duplication and conflict in the coordination of programs by stake-holders.  Therefore there was need for better coordination among organizations with similar aspirations.

Upon the completion of his presentation, a brief  time was allowed for acquaintance and interactions, and questions and comments. During this period the following comments were made:
-   The phrase "Eminent Persons" has no political implication but was only relevant to the personality of EPEPPA members. Acknowledged that total disarmament was a process and not an event and must involve communities to identify hidden arms.
-   Injustice and advocacy must involve all civil society organizations and not just the religious community.
-   EPEPPA was not directly involved in finding peace since it is a new organization but it will now work to facilitate conflict resolutions in Africa
-   Violence against women was not directly addressed by EPEPPA due to its terms of reference.

Day Three started with a Devotion led by Rev. Korboi Weegie, Member, Peace & Reconciliation Commission, LCC. Haja M. Conteh, Inter-Religious Council of Sierra Leone served as Moderator for the Morning Session.

Presentation I - Rev. William R. Tolbert, III, Regional Director, World Conference of Religions for Peace presentation was based on the "Achievement of Conflict Transformation Program for West Africa."  Below are his points:
-   He reconciled the presentations of the IRCs from the Mano River Basin, pointing out some omitted issues within their presentations.
-   He pointed out that reconciliation in Liberia should not mean sweeping the hurts under the carpet.
-   He exemplified the initiatives of Sierra Leone in identifying mass burial sites for Inter-Faith re-dedicatory ceremonies as one way of transformation exercise.
-   On the question of former President Taylor, the integrated approach suggested that Taylor be tried in the Hague rather than Sierra Leone; he also suggested that perhaps the international community should first tell us how Taylor escaped the Boston prison in the USA
-   It was also envisioned that the Sierra Leonean-based trial for Taylor would do more harm to the Region than good.
-   Collaboration among IRCs into a united effort was necessary for the reconstruction of the economy, social institutions, and infrastructures of each country.
-   Lessons learnt from the past conflict were necessary to help us move forward in Liberia. That is, using Sierra Leone as a case study in all aspects (DDRR, TRC etc.).
-   It was further argued that the Church cannot sit on the fence on the Taylor issue and must have a clear cut response when referred to by political leaders.
-   The Taylor issue was considered beyond the Church's ruling.
-   Concluding on the matter, Mr. Benjamin D. Lartey, General Secretary, LCC suggested that a special meeting should be called to address the Taylor indictment issue.

Presentation II - The Presentation was made by Rev. Joseph N. Kpanie, II, Project Officer, Early Warning and Early Response, West Africa Network for Peace Building. He spoke on "The Role of WANEP in the Peace Process and the Way Forward."  Overview:
-   WANEP was founded in 1998 and has fourteen (14) country members in West Africa and Central Africa.
-   Its Vision is a West African region characterized by just and peaceful communities where the dignity of the human person is paramount and where the people can meet their basic human needs and decide their own direction.
-   Its Mission to facilitate civil society movement in exchange for peace building mechanism and to improve indigenous framework for peace. Conflict transformation, social, religious and political reconciliation, and the promotion of West Africas social cultural values as resources for peace building.

Achievements include:
-   Contribution to the Liberian Peace Process through publications of policy briefings and periodicals on peace building information.
-   Provision of periodicals on issues of advocacy and electoral training and other critical issues.
-   WANEP has established what is called the West Africa Early Warning and Early Response Network. Its overall objective is to institutionalize a culture of prevention in West Africa through an appropriate and effective early warning and early response mechanism.
-   Close working collaboration with ECOWAS
-   Fostering collaborative relationship with/between civil society and existing national, sub-national/regional and international early warning, conflict prevention, and peace building organizations
-   Identifying and monitoring specific conflict and peace indicators and analyzing them for preventive purposes.
-   WANEP conducted training for 400 young people in Montserrado and Bong Counties on non-violent election campaign activities under the name "Seeds of Peace" sponsored by USAID/OTI/LTI. This program was implemented by WANEP in collaboration with YMCA, Muslim Youths and others
-   WANEP was part of a consortium of civil society organizations including the Inter-Religious Council of Liberia and the Coalition for Democracy in Liberia, which decided to come under a banner known as the "National Committee on Elections Monitoring," to design and put into place a mechanism to ensure that the October 2005 Presidential and Legislative elections were free, fair and conducted in accordance with internationally accepted standards. During the October and November Elections, WANEP deployed monitors in five counties.

As a way forward, Reverend Kpanie stated that for peace to be sustained, consolidated and maintained in the Mano River Basin there is urgent need for positive interactions between and among the peoples of the Mano River Basin. He asserted that dialogue on conflict prevention, conflict management, and conflict transformation should form the basic agenda for discussion on the consolidation of peace. Concluding, he stated that such dialogue should take place at all levels of society beginning with the civil society organizations, the students, religious and women's groups, and governments.

At the end of the presentation, the Moderator entertained questions, comments and observations:
-   It was observed that the killing of cows in conflict areas in Liberia has not preserved peace and a better approach in addressing problems was necessary.
-   Hon. David Kiazolu, Superintendent, Grand Cape Mount County, raised the issue of the ex-combatants occupancy of the Goodridge Rubber Plantation as threatening to the Peace Consolidation. He reiterated the failure of the Transitional Government of Liberia, and the United Nations Mission in Liberia to remove the fighters from the plantation.
-   Bishop Sumoward E. Harris clarified the issue of the Church's alleged support for a particular political party during the first round of the Liberian elections. He said that there were groups claiming loyalty and not the LCC and this was made clear on the National Radio Station and other mediums of information.
-   Mr. Baffour D. Amoa emphasized that self criticism was a positive factor to law and order and calls on the conference delegates not to go astray from conference objectives.

Comments and observations after the presentations of group work on Regional Strategies for Consolidation of Peace in West Africa:
-   Mr. Baffour D. Amoa said that all efforts by the respective groups should be documented so as to become a marketing tool for raising support. It was also suggested that a small group of experts form a Support Committee to follow up each Action Plan so that the Vision will not be lost.
-   Mr. Amoa and Mr. Alimamy Koroma both volunteered their services on the Support Committee at the international level. It was further observed that since every one did not have the same experience, potential, and expertise, the respective countries should engage in a collective approach towards Peace Consolidation.
-   Mr. Amoa observed said that the Vision should be translated into simple achievable activities and that law and order is highly necessary for peace consolidation at all times.
-   Mr. Benjamin D. Lartey suggested that a general Plan of Action be formulated as a Conference document, but it was rather decided that the group Action Plans were in themselves a form of resolution and should serve the purpose for each country. It was concluded that it should be the responsibility of all IRCs /WAIRCC to support the committee of experts locally and internationally for the implementation of each group Action Plan. It was also decided that youth be fully involved at all levels.

General Statements:
*   Mr. Benjamin D. Lartey declared the three days at the Conference as successful and called for the efforts made to continue with the implementation of the Action Plans.
*   Ms. Henrietta Peters, Representative, Federation of Liberian Youth thanked the LCC for its leadership and pledged the support of the youths in all peace consolidation efforts.
*   Mr. Alimamy Koroma expressed optimism on the implementation of Action Plan for Peace Consolidation.
*   Madam Haja Konteh of IRCSL expressed the desire and hope that this kind of Conference will continue from time to time.
*   Rev. William R. Tolbert, III said that the work from this Conference will benefit the generation tomorrow, and must continue so as to improve the quality of life of the peoples of the Sub-Region.
*   Rev. William Headley invoked prosperity on the work of the Conference.
*   Rev. Ellie Feindouno, Representative, Christian Council of Guinea, termed the Conference as satisfactory and urged the religious leaders to continue to work for peace in keeping with their Biblical mandate.
*   Imam Habib Sheriff, Representative, National Muslim Council of Liberia/Inter-Religious Council of Liberia, observed that implementation was a problem for Liberians, and called for the Action Plan to be practicalized.
*   Bishop Sumoward E. Harris thanked the delegates and International facilitators and participants for their participation, support, and facilitation. He called on leaders of Inter-Religious Councils and Civil Society to implement the Action Plans, and our international friends for greater support due to the limited capacity of local groups.
*   Most participants called for the fire of peace to keep blazing.

APPRECIATION & COMMENDATION

We wish to express thanks and appreciation to the following Ecumenical Partners/Churches for their financial support in facilitating the Liberian Council of Churches and the Fellowship of Christian Councils and Churches in West Africa to successfully host the Conference on Peace Consolidation in the Mano River Basin.
*   Church World Service
*   U.S. Catholic Mission Association

We also wish to extend our thanks and appreciation to Delegates from the following Institutions for their participation in the Conference.
*   Councils of Churches in Sierra Leone
*   Inter-Religious Council of Sierra Leone
*   Gambian Christian Council
*   Christian Council of Guinea

Thanks to all Local Participants from:
*   Inter-Religious Council of Liberia
*   West African Network for Peace Building
*   National Muslim Council of Liberia
*   Bahai Faith
*   National Muslim Council (Bushrod Island)
*   Ahmadiya Muslim Mission 
*   Isaac Winker Global Ministries
*   World Liberation Ministries International
*   Association of Evangelicals of Liberia
*   Catholic Justice and Peace Commission
*   Catholic Relief Services
*   World Evangelistic Ministry
*   Bethel World Outreach ministries
*   Caritas (Liberia)
*   Lutheran World Federation/World Service
*   Invisible Ark of the Resurrection International
*   Ecumenical Women Organization of Liberia
*   Press Union of Liberia
*   Federation of Liberian Youth
*   National Ethnic Reconciliation Conference
*   Center for Democratic Empowerment
*   Liberian Women Initiative
*   Foundation for International Dignity
*   University of Liberia Student Union
*   Stella Maris Polytechnic

Special thanks to members of the International Community for their identification and support.  An extra-ordinary thanks and appreciation to His Excellency Joseph N. Boakai, Vice-President of the Republic of Liberia.  Special thanks to the dedicated staff of LCC and the Peace & Reconciliation Commission of LCC who worked beyond the call of duty, without whom the Conference successes would not have been realized.

CONCLUSION

The President, Officers, Member Churches and Organizations of the Liberian Council of Churches, in carrying out the Council's Biblical mandate and mission must continue to work for the consolidation of peace not only in Liberia but the Mano River Basin, and therefore welcome the partnership of our ecumenical partners, members of the international community, civil society organizations, the youth and the religious community in working for the sustainability of peace in the region.

The Conference which brought together peoples from many nations, faiths and cultures was a useful and significant time for sharing experiences, shared Vision, the desire for sincere expressions to work for Peace and Reconciliation. This was indeed commendable!!!

As the Council strongly believes that peace in Liberia is meaningless without peace in Sierra Leone and Guinea, as well as Côte d'Ivoire, it vows to continue to work to ensure that the developed Plans of Action are fully implemented and therefore call on all stakeholders to join in partnership in this direction.

May God continue to bless and guide the citizens and residents within the Mano River Basin, and West Africa, Africa.

List of Participating Organizations
Ahmadiya Muslim Mission
A.M.E. Zion
Association of Evangelicals of Liberia
Bahai Faith
Bethel World Outreach Ministries
Catholic Church
Catholic Justice & Peace Commission
Catholic Relief Services
Center for Democratic Empowerment
Christian Council of Guinea
Church of the Lord Aladura
Church World Service
Council of Churches in Sierra Leone
Ecumenical Women Organization of Liberia
Eminent Persons Ecumenical Programs for Peace in Africa  
Episcopal Church
Federation of Liberia Youth
Fellowship of Christian Councils and Churches in West Africa 
Foundation for International Dignity
Gambia Christian Council
Inter-Religious Council of Liberia
Inter-Religious Council of Sierra Leone
Isaac Winker Global Ministries
Invisible Ark of the Resurrection International
Liberia Baptist Missionary & Educational Convention      
Liberian Council of Churches
Liberian Council of Churches, Bomi Chapter    
Liberian Council of Churches Peace & Reconciliation Commission      
Liberian Council of Churches Conference Secretariat 
Liberian Council of Churches/Women & Children Desk    
Liberian Women Initiative
Lutheran Church in Liberia 
Lutheran World Federation/World Service
National Ethnic Reconciliation Conference
National Grassroot Pastors Association of Liberia  
National Muslim Council (Bushrod Island)
National Muslim Council of Liberia 
Pentecostal Assembly of the World
Philadelphia Church-Liberia
Presbyterian Church
Press Union of Liberia
Stella Maris Polytechnic
Three Brothers Ministry of Faith Church            
United Church God in Christ
United Methodist Church
U.S. Catholic Mission Association
University of Liberia Student Union
West Africa Network for Peace Building
World Council of Religions for Peace
World Evangelistic Ministry
World Liberation Ministries International
Young Men Christian Association

The U.S. Catholic Mission Association was represented by Rev. Michael Montoya, Executive Director, Sr. Rosanne Rustemeyer, former Executive Director, Rev. Bill Dyer, Executive Director of Africa Faith & Justice Network and Rev. Bill Headley of Catholic Relief Services