Constantine- Algeria, 13 December 2017.

The inclusion of women in peace processes is “one of the challenges of FemWise Africa, said Foreign Minister Abdelkader Messahel in Constantine on Wednesday.

Despite the considerable progress made by the African Union in promoting women’s participation in politics, justice and security, “further efforts must be made to strengthen women’s empowerment as mediators and promoters. cross-border cooperation, “Messahel said during the first General Assembly of the Pan-African Women’s Network for Conflict Prevention and Mediation (FemWise-Africa).

Emphasizing the importance of the protection of women against all forms of violence and discrimination, Messahel assured that the participation of women as mediators in the framework of the African Union, will encourage in a way, member states to change their legislation on the representation of women in their institutions and the protection of their rights “.

“If women do not participate in the decision-making process in their society, it will be difficult for them to participate in decisions related to conflict resolution and the promotion of peace,” said the Minister of Foreign Affairs.

Mr. Messahel said, in this context, that Security Council Resolution 1325 represents “a collective awareness” of the need to place the specific situation of women at the heart of United Nations action, in particular in the field of peace-keeping operations “, adding that this resolution” pays tribute to women’s courage and commitment to peace”.

Welcoming the commendable efforts of Catherine Samba Panza and Speciosa Wandira Kazibwe, respectively a member and co-chair of FemWise-Africa, the Minister underscored the African Union’s commitment to women’s empowerment and its commitment to women’s empowerment. In all areas.

Co-organized by Algeria and the African Union (AU), this first assembly of women mediators and promoters of cross-border cooperation chaired by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Abdelkader Messahel, should be sanctioned by recommendations.

Rt. Hon. Dr Specioza Wandira Kazibwe, was former vice-President of the Republic of Uganda & first woman in Africa to hold such position.