In ongoing commitment to the fulfilment of UN Resolution 1325, in late August ACCORD held a mediation training for South African women in partnership with the Progressive Women’s Movement of South Africa (PWMSA). The development of skilled female mediators, who are active in their communities, is a vital component of addressing conflict within our societies and ACCORD was delighted to play a role in preparing a group of specially selected women from across the country with the skills to mediate in conflict situations.
The event, on 17 and 18 August, brought together 20 women, representing all of the provinces, from the private and NGO sector. The training was presented by ACCORD’s Executive Director, Mr Vasu Gounden, and Deputy Director, Mr Jerome Sachane, and consisted of an introduction to the methodology of, and approaches to, mediation.
This training formed part of a broader engagement by ACCORD with the PWMSA. In cementing this relationship, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the organisations. The objective of this partnership is to contribute towards durable peace and sustainable development in South Africa and on the continent, through supporting the development and training of women mediators.
In keeping with UN Resolution 1325, ACCORD seeks to empower women to participate more actively in peace processes. As such, this training programme is part of a wider initiative that seeks to develop mediation skills amongst women in South Africa.
