The proven role of women in conflict resolution makes first ladies’ unique position as agents for resolving conflicts in Africa even more important.
“Men make war, women make peace. That’s why women should be included in peacekeeping, peacebuilding, conflict resolution and reconstruction efforts.” The President of the African Development Bank told guests at the inauguration of the state-of-the-art headquarters of the African First Ladies Peace Mission (AFLPM) in Abuja on Tuesday.
“Without peace and security, there can be no development,” said Dr. Adesina in a speech delivered on his behalf by Lamine Barrow, Director General of the African Development Bank for Nigeria.
First Lady and outgoing President of Nigeria African First Lady Peace MissionAisha Buhari stressed the importance of the role of women in conflict resolution.
“As women leaders and mothers, our role in peace and security is to continue to say no to the culture and structures of violence that compel people to accept and inflict violence on innocent victims, the vast majority of whom are women. And have kids,” she said.
She told the gathering that the African First Lady peacekeeping mission has received support and encouragement from partners led by the African Union. Buhari said that the AFLPM has also signed a memorandum of understanding with the African Union for cooperation in peace building.
The African Development Bank partnered with the African Union to develop security-indexed investment bonds to help address the root causes of political instability, protect businesses and livelihoods, and raise funds to rebuild infrastructure in conflict-affected areas. partnered with.
The Bank is also providing assistance to vulnerable and internally displaced women living in refugee camps in the Sahel region.
“Nothing works without peace and security,” Adesina said, adding her voice to the African Union’s call to ‘silence the guns’. “Many parts of Africa face major security challenges from conflict and war. Today, 85% of Africans live in or near a country in conflict.”
Women and children are disproportionately affected by wars, she said, adding that sexual violence, kidnapping, forced recruitment and trafficking of women must end.
“Women’s voices should never be silenced,” Adesina said.
The bank chief described African First Ladies as vital to the efforts of African leaders and the African Union to ensure a peaceful and secure Africa by 2063.
“Your focus on addressing violence, promoting the role of women, promoting a culture of peace and reducing conflict is truly commendable,” Adesina said. “The African Development Bank stands ready to support your efforts and we look forward to a strong partnership with your organization.”
He also stressed the importance of collective responsibility to unite to resolve conflicts, break cycles of violence and address fragility.
