Luanda:Angola's National Assembly has reaffirmed its dedication to gender equality, the protection of women's rights, and enhanced parliamentary cooperation to promote a more peaceful and developed Great Lakes Region. This commitment was articulated by Teresa Neto, chair of the Women Parliamentarians' Group, during a high-level round-table discussion as part of the Conference of Women Parliamentarians, themed 'Towards a Peaceful and Developed Great Lakes Region.'
According to Angola Press News Agency, Teresa Neto emphasized the essential role of peace and stability in development, advocating for the active involvement of women in conflict prevention and resolution. She highlighted the significance of United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325, adopted in October 2000, which acknowledges women as key players in preventing violence and facilitating peacebuilding.
Neto also underscored the National Assembly's role in implementing the Women, Peace, and Security agenda through legislative and oversight functions, including the adoption of laws and the monitoring of public policies. The approval of the Second-Generation National Action Plan for the Implementation of Resolution 1325, established by Presidential Decree No. 159/26, covering 2026-2027, was also highlighted as a part of Angola's commitments.
Addressing the challenges in the Great Lakes Region, Neto pointed out the risks faced by women and girls in conflict situations and highlighted their roles in community organization and reconciliation. She advocated for stronger cooperation among the region's parliaments and reiterated the necessity of women's effective participation for lasting peace.
The conference, held in Tanzania, serves as a platform for examining commitments and challenges to strengthening women's participation in regional peacebuilding efforts. It marks a symbolic and practical milestone in enhancing the role of women parliamentarians in regional stability and development. Tanzania's hosting of the event follows a headquarters agreement signed in Dodoma, attended by an Angolan parliamentary delegation led by Sérgio Vaz.
