Luanda: The First Lady of Angola, Ana Dias Louren§o, emphasized the importance of peace as a cornerstone for national reconstruction, the consolidation of the rule of law, and the expansion of women's rights in Angola.
According to Angola Press News Agency, Ana Dias Louren§o, speaking at the launch of the continental campaign "Building Resilience for Women and Girls, Climate, Conflict and Sustainable Futures," highlighted that the nation's development projects have been made possible due to the peace achieved 24 years ago. As the vice-president of the Organization of African First Ladies for Development (OAFLAD), she underscored that peace was a historic achievement that ended prolonged suffering and restored hope, dignity, and confidence, particularly for women in Angola.
Ana Louren§o pointed out that in situations of armed conflict, women disproportionately bear the brunt, facing increased vulnerability and violations of their fundamental rights. She asserted that peace has facilitated the implementation of essential public policies, improving living conditions and promoting women's rights, with enhanced participation and equal opportunities in the development process.
The First Lady stressed, "Peace is not just about silencing the weapons; peace is built with dialogue and unity." She called for collective efforts to promote peace, security, and stability in Africa through inclusive dialogue and sustainable solutions to the structural causes of conflicts.
The First Lady recalled the II International Women's Forum for Peace and Democracy in Luanda on July 9 and 10. The forum, organized by the Office of the African Union Special Envoy for Women, Peace and Security and the Network of African Women Leaders, was significant given the resurgence of conflicts on the continent.
Ana Dias Louren§o noted that the number of conflicts in Africa has nearly doubled, from 15 in 2003 to 28 in 2026, impacting approximately 169 million people. She urged for strengthened conflict prevention and resolution initiatives to build a future of resilience, development, and prosperity for African populations.
The First Lady stressed Angola's commitment to peace as a culture, sustained by dialogue, tolerance, mutual respect, and harmonious coexistence. She mentioned the fourth edition of the Luanda Biennial - Pan-African Forum for a Culture of Peace and Non-Violence in Africa, to be held in Luanda. This initiative, a collaboration between the African Union, UNESCO, and the Angolan government, underscores Angola and Africa's commitment to building more just, inclusive, and sustainable societies.
Ana Dias Louren§o extended an invitation from the Angolan president to African women to participate in the forum, emphasizing their crucial role in promoting a culture of peace, preventing conflicts, and valuing dialogue.
OAFLAD, established in 2002, unites African first ladies to work in areas such as health, education, combating gender-based violence, and economic empowerment to contribute to the sustainable development of the continent.
