Africa: Peacebuilding Needs More Women, Youth - What's Holding Them Back?

Nov 9, 2021
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First, I just want to welcome you both to all Africa's Silence The Guns series, where we focus on peacebuilding on the continent. I am Mantsadi Sepheka from allAfrica. And today we take a closer look at the role of women and youth in peacebuilding in Africa. So there is no question that the role of women and youth in peacebuilding is extremely valuable, and by empowering and supporting both the youth and women to play a part in society is of course a step in the right direction. One such organisation that has been supporting women empowerment is the Foundation for Security and Development in Africa (Fosda). So Fosda's goal is to help in youth development, woman empowerment and peace and security. It started as a dream by a group of Africans in the UK in the late 80s and 90s. The foundation's Theodora Williams Anti is joining us today. She is a peace and security expert and has 15 years' experience with expertise in development, and project management, and holds a Masters in Political Science from the University of Ghana. Welcome Theodora to allAfrica's Silence The Guns series. Thank you very much. So, before we get to what your foundation does to support women, can you give us your thoughts on the importance of woman playing a role in peacebuilding and conflict resolution?