By Seedy Jobe
The Raise the Young Foundation took a notable step toward advancing peace and security in The Gambia on Friday with the launch of its Women Mediators’ Network in Bwiam, Foni Kansala. The initiative aims to strengthen women’s participation in conflict resolution and peacebuilding, drawing together community leaders, government officials, development partners, and aspiring women mediators.
At the ceremony, Yankuba Keita, the foundation’s chief executive officer, emphasized that peacebuilding is a shared responsibility. “Peacebuilding is not a one-sided matter. Both men and women are crucial partners in the process of peace building,” he said.
Pa Sainey Nyassi, the Alkalo of Bwiam, echoed the sentiment, stressing that greater involvement of women in peace initiatives could help reduce conflict in homes, workplaces, and broader society.
Babucarr Sambou, a resource speaker at the event, highlighted the international frameworks that guide women’s roles in peace and security, particularly United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325, which advocates for women’s participation in conflict prevention, protection, relief, and recovery efforts.
The launch of the Women Mediators’ Network represents a significant milestone in empowering Gambian women to act as agents of peace, providing them with training, tools, and platforms to mediate conflicts and foster resilient communities.