WPS: Turning Policy into Action for Gender Equality and Peacebuilding

To foster gender equality and peacebuilding at the local level, a dynamic workshop with women counsellors and women leaders on UNSCR1325, NAP II, leadership and advocacy brought together 30 women counselors, female staff members of councils, women leaders in churches, and women within development associations. Organized by the center for advocacy in gender equality and action for development (CAGEAD) in partnership with the German Agency for International Cooperation (GIZ), this gathering aimed to bridge the gap between policy formulation and impactful community action.

The workshop centered on key issues such as the United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325 (UNSCR 1325), the National Action Plan 2 (NAP 2), women's leadership, and advocacy. These topics are crucial in promoting women's active participation in peacebuilding, decision-making, and community development. The session was designed to empower women to not only understand the policies in place but also to transform these policies into tangible actions within councils, churches, and broader communities.

Participants came from Bamenda III and Tubah Municipalities, representing diverse backgrounds but common aspirations; to see women’s voices amplified and their roles strengthened in local governance and community development.

  As Mrs. Margeret Nzelem, the Second Deputy Mayor of Bamenda III, emphasized, “From this meeting, the most important thing to know are policies put in place in the councils as far as gender is concerned. Where policies are not yet in place, we must come out with policies that will favor the female gender in Bamenda III. We will ensure that every project carried out in Bamenda III involves women.”

This workshop is part of the broader project titled: "Building Resilient and Inclusive Local Institutions and Empowering Local Women Leaders in the Implementation of the National Action Plan 2." The initiative aims to strengthen local institutions to be more inclusive, resilient, and responsive to gender issues, ultimately fostering environments where women are active participants and leaders.

The project recognizes that meaningful progress begins at the grassroots level, with local policies and community-driven actions that reflect the realities and needs of women. Ensuring that women are involved in project planning, implementation, and evaluation is fundamental to fostering sustainable development and peace.

One of the most inspiring moments of the workshop was the testimonies from participants about how the training opened their eyes to new possibilities. A councilor, who preferred to remain anonymous, shared, “This workshop is an eye-opener for us, particularly regarding leadership. We have been trained on the types and characteristics of leadership, qualities of a leader, and advocacy. Many of us are councilors but do not fully understand what it takes to be effective leaders. Sometimes projects are presented to us, and we are not involved, but today, we are empowered to participate actively in project development within our council areas.”

This shift from passive recipients of projects to active contributors and advocates signifies a major step forward in democratizing local governance and promoting inclusive leadership.

The key takeaway from this gathering is the urgent need to review and implement gender-sensitive policies at the council level. Where gaps exist, the women leaders present committed to championing the development of policies that will favor women’s participation and rights. The goal is clear: ‘every project in Bamenda III should involve women, ensuring their voices are heard and their needs addressed’.

As Mrs. Nzelem insightfully noted, “We will make sure that every project carried out in Bamenda III involves women.” Her words reflect a collective determination to embed gender considerations into all facets of community development, from planning to execution.

 

The workshop was a crucial step in transforming international resolutions and national policies into concrete community actions. By empowering women leaders, fostering inclusive policies, and encouraging active participation, this initiative is laying the groundwork for more resilient, equitable, and peaceful communities.

As these women continue to champion gender equality within their councils, churches, and associations, they exemplify the power of collective action in shaping a future where women are not just beneficiaries but also architects of positive change. The journey from policy to action is ongoing, but with such dedicated leaders at the helm, the prospects for sustainable progress are brighter than ever.

By Emmanuela Monie