The Southern African Development Community (SADC), in partnership with ACCORD and the Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs, launched the Network of Women Mediators in Southern Africa, in Johannesburg, South Africa on 28 January 2025. The launch was followed by a three-day regional capacity-building workshop from 29 – 31 January 2025, aimed at operationalising the Network and strengthening women’s participation in mediation and conflict resolution across the region.
The establishment of the Network responds to the SADC Regional Strategy on Women, Peace, and Security (2018–2030) and the United Nations Security Council Resolution (UNSCR) 1325, which underscores the importance of women’s full and equal participation in peace and security processes. With oversight and coordination provided by the SADC Secretariat, the Network is designed to enhance women’s roles in conflict prevention, mediation, peacebuilding, and post-conflict reconstruction, complementing the work of FemWise-Africa at the continental level.
The launch event featured high-level speakers, including H.E. Dr Joyce Banda, former President of Malawi and member of the SADC Panel of Elders, who officially inaugurated the Network. Other key speakers included representatives from SADC, FemWise-Africa, the European Union, and ACCORD. Mrs Pravina Makan-Lakha, Advisor on Women, Peace, and Security at ACCORD, highlighted the transformative role of women in peace processes, stating:
“Women are not just participants in peacebuilding; they are the architects of sustainable solutions. The launch of this Network is a decisive step in ensuring their voices are at the forefront of mediation efforts.”
The launch was an opportunity to reflect on the political landscape of Southern Africa and its implications for mediation. Dr Vasu Gounden, Founder and Executive Director of ACCORD, provided an overview of regional conflict dynamics, emphasising the need for inclusive mediation frameworks that reflect the lived experiences of women.
Following the launch, the regional capacity-building workshop engaged key stakeholders, including representatives from government ministries, civil society organisations, and community peace structures.
Participants underscored the importance of institutionalising the Network at national levels through structured chapters that will engage with SADC mediation structures, national peace infrastructures, and regional decision-making platforms. Discussions also centred on the need for annual convenings and reporting mechanisms to assess progress in strengthening women’s participation in mediation.
The launch and workshop reaffirmed ACCORD’s commitment to advancing gender-sensitive conflict resolution strategies and ensuring that women’s leadership in peace processes is not just recognised but actively institutionalised. As the Network of Women Mediators in Southern Africa takes shape, stakeholders are encouraged to champion its objectives, advocate for policy integration, and contribute to a sustainable and inclusive peace agenda for the region.
