In a landmark occasion for conflict resolution and gender equality, Foundation for Security and Development in Africa (FOSDA) proudly unveils its pioneering initiative: the Women Mediators Network of Ghana (WoMNET-GH). This network marks a significant stride towards fostering inclusive dialogue and mediation processes within the nation.
Officially launched on 14th March 2024, the Women Mediators Network embodied the culmination of collaborative efforts from FOSDA, Peace legacy Africa, and the National Peace Council. This was with initial funding support from the Canadian Funds for Local Initiative.
Now, with funding support from Global Affairs Canada and with more partners on board like The Women, Youth Peace and Security Department of KAIPTC, the Ghana African Chapter of the African Women Leaders Network, the Ghana Chapter of the Network for Peace and Security for Women in the ECOWAS Space and UNWomen, this network stands as a beacon of hope for women peacebuilders and their contributions towards peaceful elections in Ghana for December 2024.
This launch was in commemoration of the 2024 International Women’s Day and the event was under the theme, ‘Investing in Women Peace and Security to Promote Peace and Political Stability in Ghana’
The establishment of the Women Mediators Network seeks to recognize the pivotal role of women in building and sustaining peace and to inspire their inclusion.
Women Peacebuilders from diverse backgrounds and sectors like Traditional Authority (Queen mothers), Regional Peace Councils, Academia, the Ministry of Gender, and other government sectors have come together, to share experiences, and to amplify their impact. Through training, capacity-building initiatives, and networking opportunities, the network aims to empower women with the skills, resources, and support needed to engage meaningfully in mediation processes at local, national, and international levels.
Moreover, the launch of this network signifies a broader commitment towards advancing gender equality and the Ghana National Action Plan on UNSCR 1325 (Ghana NAP 2) by elevating the visibility and influence of women in peacebuilding efforts.
The launch event was graced with the presence of Hon. Diana Asonaba Dapaah – the Deputy Attorney-General and Minister for Justice, Ms. Grace Lee – Political Counselor at the Canadian High Commission, Ms. Krisztina Orosz-Jaksi – Deputy Head of Mission at the Embassy of Hungary, Dr. Charity Binka- the Chair of the African Women Leaders Network (AWLN), Madam Patience Agyare-Ashie – Director of WYPSI- KAIPTC, Mr. Alex Nartey – National Coordinator of the ADR Secretariat, Ms. Semefa Asimenu – Head of the Gender Unit, NPC and Madam Janet Adama Mohammed – Representative of the Women Mediators across the Commonwealth (WMC).
The launch was also attended by representatives from various CSOs like Star Ghana Foundation, WILDAF-GH, Plan Ghana International, and Catholic Relief Services. As well as Government Officials from The National and Regional Peace Councils, the Small Arms Commission, KAIPTC and the Office of the Attorney General.
The Media houses present were Ghana News Agency, Starr FM, GhOne TV and Daily Graphic.
As WoMNet-GH takes this pioneering step forward, it sends a powerful message to the rest of the country: that women’s voices matter, and their contributions are indispensable in forging a more peaceful and prosperous future for all. With the launch of the Women Mediators Network, Ghana not only sets a precedent within its borders but also inspires other African Nations to embrace the transformative potential of gender-inclusive peacebuilding initiatives.
To conclude, FOSDA reiterates the opening statement of Hajia Hamdatu Ibrahim Hussain, member of the steering committee of WoMNet-GH,
“The launch is the beginning. As we embark on this journey, let us collectively reaffirm our commitment to advancing gender equality, amplifying women’s voices, and realizing the transformative potential of inclusive peacebuilding. Especially, in realizing the goal of building inclusive secured and peaceful societies for all in Ghana especially women and girls by effectively implementing the Ghana NAP 2 on UNSCR 1325”.