TIEBISSOU, Ivory Coast – More than five years after a brief war erupted and split the country into a rebel-controlled north and government-held south, the rebels and government forces have agreed to begin the process of disarmament.  Ceremonies are being held on either side of the ceasefire line today and it is hoped that this will be a significant step towards the planned reunification of the country. 

The warring parties first agreed to a ceasefire several months after the brief war erupted in 2002.  In 2004, the government announced the start of disarmament, but disagreements among the parties have repeatedly delayed the process.  Former enemies President Laurent Gbago and ex-rebel leader Guillaume Soro forged a partnership in March and have worked towards this disarmament.   The process is expected to take three months.

For more information, please see:

BBC News – Ivory Coast’s disarmament begins – 22 December 2007

International Herald Tribune – Ivory Coast factions begin disarmament process – 22 December 2007

Reuters – Ivory Coast former foes launch disarmament process – 22 December 2007

AFP – African Union hails progress towards peace in Ivory Coast – 21 December 2007