UNAMID promotes women's participation in traditional mediation

EL FASHER (DARFUR), Sudan, May 30, 2013/African Press Organization (APO)/ -- Promoting women's representation in traditional mediation mechanisms, implementing international instruments on women's rights, and developing strategic plans on women's participation in the peace and security process was the focused of a two-day workshop which concluded on 28 May in El Fasher, North Darfur.

The event, organized by the African Union - United Nations Mission in Darfur (UNAMID), brought together more than 40 participants representing the North Darfur State Mediation Council (Ajaweed) and the North Darfur State Committee on UN Security Council Resolution 1325 on Women in an effort to raise awareness on the importance of women's participation in communities.

“Currently, Darfur tribal traditions do not allow for women to be at the same level as men when it comes to traditional mediation,” said Eltiganni Mohamad Salih, Rapporteur of North Darfur State Executive Council of Civil Administration. “Women's contribution will only be achieved gradually,” he added.

Among recommendation made by those in attendance were the strengthening of the civil administration system and raising awareness on women's participation in the mediation process.

Similar workshops are being planned for other parts of Darfur as part of the Mission's effort to integrate a gender perspective within the peace process.