More concerted efforts to scale up women's participation in peacebuilding processes are urgently needed in Africa.
International Relations Minister Peya Mushelenga has called on governments to allocate resources for the implementation of programmes that support women's inclusion.
The African Union members have taken stock of women's participation and leadership in peace processes in Swakopmund.
The high-level ministerial seminar further marked the 20th anniversary of the Peace and Security Council.
The International Relations and Cooperation Minister says Namibia has advanced towards achieving equal representation in parliament.
Dr. Peya Mushelenga added that the country is committed to the full implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 1325 and called on other members to support the provisions of the resolution.
"It is stated that failures of implementation result from a lack of resources, a lack of political will, and a lack of understanding about the true WPS principles that ought to be prioritised and thus operationalized. As government and intergovernmental organisations, we should create an impetus for Resolution 1325 and allocate resources to programmes that address its provisions. We should demonstrate the will and zeal in our actions and bring women to play meaningful roles."
According to the Peace and Security Council, 34 African countries have developed national action plans, while six regional action plans have been adopted in the past two decades.
The council has also established powerful networks to increase the space for women.
"The network has garnered significant presence across the continent with women mediators and peacebuilders from 50 countries and all 5 regions. The network has also worked significantly to build the capacities of its members not only in mediation, dialogue, and negotiations but also in thematic areas that drive conflicts on the continent."
Despite progress in some areas, the statistics from the United Nations revealed that women's participation decreased in 2022 to 16%, compared to 19% in 2021.
"This yet again demonstrates that investment in women and girls and a consistent willingness to ensure their involvement in peacebuilding efforts are generally low. Adopting quotas for women's participation in peace processes is one of the strategies that could help secure space for women and bring concrete changes in the participant leadership of women in peace and governance."