The Foundation for Security and Development in Africa (FOSDA), represented by Women, Peace and Security (WPS) Project Officer Ms. Dorothy Barnes, participated in the Sub-Regional Forum on the Role of Women in Conflict Prevention and Peacebuilding in the Gulf of Guinea, held in Abidjan from 7-8 July 2025.

Organised by UNDP in collaboration with regional partners, the forum brought together delegates from Benin, Côte d’Ivoire, Ghana, Togo, and Burkina Faso. Discussions focused on the deteriorating security environment driven by violent extremism, organized crime, and the escalating Sahel spillover. Key issues highlighted included:

• A 30% year-on-year rise in violent incidents across the region.
• Disproportionate impacts on women, who constitute 80% of displaced populations and face elevated gender-based violence risks.
• Deepening socio-economic vulnerabilities compounded by climate change and poor access to services.
• The growing recognition of women-led networks as essential agents of peace, early warning, and mediation.

The forum embraced inclusive dialogue and policy co-creation, exploring themes such as security threats, women’s peace initiatives, leadership models, and the digital empowerment of women.

Representing the Ghanaian delegation, Ms. Barnes showcased several best practices, reflecting Ghana’s growing commitment to gender-responsive peacebuilding. These included:

• GHANAP 2 Progress: Ghana’s second National Action Plan on UNSCR 1325 shows improved implementation and measurable outcomes in women’s participation and protection.
• Women Mediators Network: A national database promoting grassroots female mediators and elevating local peace leadership.
• Capacity Building: Training for traditional authorities, students, and market women to foster a culture of peace.
• Public Sensitization: Widespread awareness campaigns on GHANAP 2 to strengthen public understanding of women’s role in security.
• Symbolic Appointments: The landmark appointments of Ghana’s first female Director General of Prisons and Chief Fire Officer were celebrated as milestones for women’s leadership in security sectors.

The forum reinforced the urgent need for gender-sensitive, multi-level responses to the complex crises threatening the Gulf of Guinea. Ghana’s experience—rooted in inclusive policymaking and community engagement—serves as a testament to the transformative power of women in building sustainable peace. FOSDA remains committed to advancing the WPS agenda, ensuring that women’s voices are not only heard but shape the region’s security future.