Ministry says working to enhance women’s participation in conflict resolution 

Addis Ababa, November 29, 2023 (FBC) – Ministry of Peace stated that it is working to enhance women’s participation in peacebuilding and conflict resolution.

The Peace Ministry in collaboration with the African Union has launched the FemWise-Africa national chapter.

Addressing the launching ceremony, the Peace Minister, Binalf Andualem reaffirmed Ethiopia’s unwavering commitment to the ideals of regional and multilateral bodies dedicated to peace and security.

He highlighted Ethiopia’s consistent position as a leading troop contributor to UN and AU peace support missions, emphasizing the nation’s commitment of deploying the highest number of women in peace operations.

The minister further stressed the need to translate these peacekeeping and peace support mission achievements into the realms of peacemaking and peace building, accord8ng to ENA.

Therefore, the ministry wholeheartedly endorses and supports initiatives like FemWise-Africa, which are dedicated to empowering women in conflict prevention and mediation.

According to him, the ministry is enthusiastic about collaborating with the AU Commission as its endeavors to encourage peace processes and conflict prevention align seamlessly with the ministry’s vision.

Efforts have therefore been underway to draft the nation’s first-ever national action plan in accordance with UN Security Council Resolution 1325, Binalf revealed.

AU Political Affairs, Peace and Security Commissioner Bankole Adeoye, through his representative, underscored on the occasion the significance of the Ethiopian chapter’s establishment, attributing its success to the collaborative efforts of the AU Commission, Ministry of Peace, and dedicated FemWise-Africa members.

The inauguration of the FemWise-Africa Ethiopia chapter signifies a remarkable milestone for the organization and for Ethiopian women, heralding an era of increased engagement in conflict prevention and resolution at national, regional, and continental levels.

Commissioner Adeoye urged African nations to expedite the launch of their respective FemWise-Africa national chapters to strengthen women’s participation and ensure gender equality in fostering a peaceful and secure Africa.

Ethiopia is the third African country after Uganda and Malawi to launch the FemWise-Africa national chapter in the continent.

The FemWise-Africa is dedicated to amplifying the voices of women in conflict prevention and mediation endeavors in the continent.