Angola has reaffirmed its commitment to preventing and resolving conflicts through diplomatic efforts, with a focus on promoting peace, security, and development in Africa. Speaking at the High-Level Forum of Women of the Great Lakes Region in Luanda, President João Lourenço emphasized the importance of collaboration with international and regional partners to achieve these goals.
The president highlighted the devastating impact of armed conflicts on the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Sudan, stressing that women play a vital role in peace-building efforts. “The role of women in peace-building is unquestionable, and their involvement is essential,” he said. Lourenço noted that women’s presence in communities, their direct experience with the effects of war, and their ability to promote dialogue and reconciliation make them invaluable assets in the pursuit of peace.
Angola’s own experience in achieving peace after a long armed conflict serves as a testament to the importance of women’s involvement in the peace process. Lourenço praised the courage of women who have stood up to negotiate peace, rebuild communities, and heal the wounds of war. However, he also expressed regret that women remain underrepresented in formal processes related to conflict prevention, management, and resolution.
To address this issue, Lourenço emphasized the need to remove barriers that prevent or limit women’s participation in peace efforts. He highlighted the importance of women’s roles as caregivers, educators, and community leaders, noting that they have taken the lead in peace initiatives, acting as mediators and negotiators in local conflicts and building trust between warring parties.
The High-Level Forum of Women of the Great Lakes Region, which runs until Saturday in Luanda, aims to promote dialogue and collaboration among stakeholders to achieve a holistic and effective implementation of the “Women, Peace and Security Agenda.” The forum, facilitated by the African Union through the Office of the Special Envoy for Women, Peace and Security, seeks to integrate gender perspectives into policies and programs in the region, with a focus on strengthening women’s participation and leadership in peace and security processes.
By prioritizing women’s involvement in peace efforts, Angola and its regional partners hope to create a more stable and secure environment for all. As President Lourenço emphasized, the role of women in peace-building is essential, and their participation is crucial to achieving lasting peace and development in Africa.
