Dar es Salaam:Angola The Chairperson of the Parliamentary Forum of the International Conference on the Great Lakes Region (FP-ICGLR), Adão de Almeida, has advocated for the increased involvement of women in conflict prevention, mediation, negotiation, and peacebuilding processes. His remarks were made during the ICGLR Conference of Women Parliamentarians.
According to Angola Press News Agency, de Almeida emphasized Angola's successful experience in overcoming armed conflict and reiterated the nation's commitment to fostering African-led political solutions to ongoing conflicts on the continent. He highlighted the need for sustainable peacebuilding efforts that involve directly affected populations and trust between states, stressing the importance of women's effective participation in these processes.
The Angolan parliamentary leader expressed concern over persistent challenges in the Great Lakes Region, including armed conflicts, forced displacement, illegal exploitation of natural resources, poverty, and inter-community tensions. He noted that these issues have severe humanitarian consequences, particularly for women and children, necessitating a concerted response centered on dialogue, diplomacy, and sustainable political solutions.
De Almeida underscored the significant impact of instability on women, who often face forced displacement, family separation, disrupted education, and increased risks of violence and exploitation. He advocated for recognizing women as agents of peace, contributing to reconciliation and social cohesion. He called for women's active participation in decision-making forums, highlighting the need for their involvement in peace negotiations, regional and international security institutions, and reconstruction processes.
He also emphasized the importance of including women in the formulation of public policies that address community needs and help prevent future conflicts. The ICGLR Conference of Women Parliamentarians, held from November 2 to 5 in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, brings together regional representatives to discuss women's leadership and its contribution to peace, security, and sustainable development.
