The former country director of the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) in Côte d’Ivoire, André Carvalhoproceeded on Friday to the official presentation of his autobiographical book entitled Break THE chains of the poverty. The ceremony took place in Abidjan, in presence of Premier minister Robert Beugré Mambé, sponsor of the event.
Published by L’Harmattan Senegal, the work retraces the author’s exceptional journey, from his modest childhood in Ziguinchor (Senegal) to his UN senior office, especially in Côte d’Ivoire, where he directed the UNDP office from 2007 to 2012.
Through 300 pages structured in four main parts and dix chapters, André Carvalho Share his personal experiences, his fights against inequalities, as well as his vision of a more equitable and human development.
Speaking during the ceremony, the Premier minister Robert Beugré Mambé praised an “inspiring” and “hope” work, paying tribute to the author.
“André Carvalho is an example. He embodies the values of rigor, humility and empathy that is expected of a real servant of the United Nations, “he said.
-He also stressed the importance of the testimony delivered in this workespecially for African youth. “Development cannot be decreed, it is built with commitment, passion and determination,” he added.
For his part, André Carvalho explained that he had felt the need to share his story after surviving a helicopter accident in 2018.
“This moment marked a turning point in my life. I understood the urgency of transmitting a message of hope and faith in the future,” he said.
The ceremony was also marked by several moving testimonies, notably that of the current Director of UNDP in Côte d’Ivoire, who sees Carvalho “a figure of human inspiration and leadership”.
Beyond the personal story, Break THE chains of the poverty is a real plea in favor of social justice, equity and collective commitment. A strong message for a continent in search of landmarks and models of sustainable success.
