Silencing the Guns in Africa: Women’s Peace Building Roles
摘要
Silencing the guns in Africa aims to rid the continent of all forms of conflicts and its attendant violence. Women are pivotal to peace building and security in Africa, having played key roles in bringing peace to conflict affected communities in the region. Their role in silencing the guns is essential to realizing a conflict free Africa. Despite the recognition that women’s voices and actions contribute significantly to building a peaceful and prosperous continent, such as the adoption of UN Security Council Resolution 1325 and related Conventions and Protocols that empower women in Africa, they are still not adequately represented in mechanisms geared towards conflict prevention and resolution in Africa. This study examined specific measures taken by selected African countries to ensure the full and equal participation of women in conflict resolution and peace building which is crucial to silencing the guns. In-depth study of relevant policy papers and official documents on women in Africa provided the methodology for the study. Findings reveal that women bear the brunt of violence and are affected in different ways than men. They have been involved in negotiation and mediation of major conflicts in Africa, yet their role is often downplayed and there remains lack of implementation of policy frameworks in this regard. The study recommends that countries should adopt and implement action plans and programs to achieve the women, peace and security agenda in Africa.