On March 23rd 2024, recognizing the pivotal role women play in peace-making and peace-building endeavours, the African Union Peace and Security Council (AU PSC) convened a landmark Ministerial High-Level Seminar themed: “Commemorating 20 Years of the PSC by Taking Stock of Women’s Participation and Leadership in Peace Processes in Africa.” Held in Swakopmund, Namibia, this inaugural Ministerial High-Level Seminar on Women, Peace and Security (WPS) aimed to champion women’s meaningful participation and representation across all dimensions of peace-making, notably within formal peace processes in Africa.

The High-Level Seminar was attended by the Network of African Women in Conflict Prevention and Mediation (FEMWISE) from the Regional Economic Communities/Regional Mechanisms (RECs/RMs), women peacebuilders, gender experts, development partners, civil society organizations, think-tanks and other relevant stakeholders.

The Seminar was inaugurated by Hon. Dr. Peya Mushelenga, Minister of International Relations and Cooperation of the Republic of Namibia and Chairperson of the PSC for March 2024. Dr. Mushelenga underscored the imperative of amplifying women’s voices, acknowledging their experiences, and advocating for their active involvement in all phases of peace processes. He emphasized, “By ensuring women's full and equal participation, we not only enhance the effectiveness of our peace initiatives but also pave the way for a more just and equitable society.”

Ambassador Bankole Adeoye, AU Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security outlined the Commission’s efforts in advancing the WPS Agenda in Africa, acknowledging progress made and challenges to be addressed. He highlighted the pivotal role of women in promoting peace on the continent and praised initiatives such as the AU Panel of the Wise (PoW), institutionalization of the Office of the Special Envoy on WPS, establishment of FEMWISE Africa, African Women Leaders Network (AWLN), cooperation with the African First Ladies Peace Mission and the inclusion of female African Youth Ambassadors for Peace, all enhancing women’s participation in peace processes in the Continent. “We need to further strengthen the protection of women and girls by mainstreaming them in all our peace efforts,” the Commissioner stated while addressing participants on the impact of conflicts on women.

In his statement, the Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General to the AU and Head of UNOAU, Parfait Onanga Anyanga, lauded African women’s tireless efforts in promoting peace and security. He urged concerted action to further enhance women’s participation, stating, “Let us commit to taking the necessary policy decisions to ensure that our African heroines continue to impact positively on the peace process.” 

The Seminar welcomed the celebration of the 20^th anniversary of the Peace and Security Council and its commitment towards championing and promoting the women, peace and security agenda since the establishment of the Peace and Security Council. Read more here.