Friday December 6, 2024
Sadia Mohamed Noor, newly elected Chairperson of the IGAD Women’s Peace and Security Forum, addresses the conference in Mombasa, Kenya, where her historic victory was announced. (Photo: SUPPLIED)
Mogadishu (HOL) — Sadiya Mohamed Noor, Somalia’s Director of the Gender Department, has been elected Chairperson of the IGAD Women’s Peace and Security Forum (IWPSF), marking a significant milestone in the country’s efforts to amplify women’s leadership across the Horn of Africa. The election, held December 4 in Mombasa, Kenya, saw Sadiya secure the position following the withdrawal of South Sudanese candidate Amer Manyok Deng, who assumed the role of Vice Chairperson.
Sadiya’s election highlights Somalia’s growing influence in regional peace initiatives. She highlighted the opportunity as a turning point for Somali women to demonstrate leadership on the international stage.
“This is more than a personal victory; it’s a testament to Somalia’s readiness to lead. My vision for peace and integration resonated with the committee, affirming our capability to take on this responsibility,” Sadiya told the BBC.
The IGAD Women’s Peace and Security Forum, established in 2013, aims to foster peacebuilding, gender equality, and social cohesion in one of the world’s most volatile regions. Comprising representatives from governments, legislatures, and civil society, the forum provides a unique space for collaboration among women leaders.
Sadiya’s election follows years of advocacy for Somali women’s rights and peacebuilding efforts. Her campaign highlighted Somalia’s recent strides in stabilization and her plans to bring innovative leadership to the forum.
“We emphasized the importance of peace and women’s role in uniting communities. This platform isn’t just about Somalia; it’s about creating opportunities for all women in the Horn of Africa,” Sadiya said.
During her tenure, Sadiya plans to focus on three core areas: empowering women across IGAD member states, advancing regional peace initiatives, and promoting social integration. She emphasized the need for collective action to address women’s challenges in conflict-affected regions.
“This forum is a tool for change. I hope to inspire Somali women and others in the region to lead boldly and contribute to lasting peace,” she stated.
The newly elected leadership team also includes Dora Byamukama of Uganda as Secretary. The Somali Ministry of Family Affairs welcomed the election results, praising the team’s commitment to advancing IWPSF’s agenda.
The leadership team will serve a three-year term, during which they aim to implement a comprehensive action plan focusing on development, security, and social cohesion.
The IGAD Women’s Peace and Security Forum was created to address the unique challenges faced by women in the region, particularly in conflict-affected areas. With IGAD as its secretariat, the forum has become a vital mechanism for fostering dialogue, collaboration, and policy change.
- With files from the BBC Somali Service
