In many African conflicts, women and youth are excluded from peace processes because they often lack representation in the political elite who benefit from prolonged instability and whose children are not enlisted as combatants. This exclusion underscores a critical gap in the effectiveness of peacebuilding efforts. We could significantly enhance conflict mediation and resolution by enshrining statutory roles and binding powers for non-aligned, non-political civil society groups led by women and youth. These groups bring fresh perspectives and unyielding commitment to peace, serving as vital catalysts in inclusive governance and conflict resolution. As the continent grapples with ongoing conflicts, the indispensable roles of women and youth in peacebuilding become ever more apparent, highlighting the need for their full participation in shaping sustainable solutions. Some of their notable contributions include:
Mediators and negotiators
African women and youth have actively participated as mediators and negotiators in peace processes. Women, in particular, have been involved in peace talks and negotiations, bringing their unique perspectives to the table. For instance, the Mano River Women’s Peace Network (MARWOPNET), which spans multiple countries including Liberia, Sierra Leone and Guinea, has been instrumental in mediating local conflicts and advocating for gender-sensitive policies that promote lasting peace. MARWOPNET facilitates dialogues between warring factions and promotes the involvement of women and youth in conflict prevention, management and resolution throughout the Mano River sub-region and beyond.
Grassroots activism
At the grassroots level, African women and youth have been instrumental in promoting community reconciliation and social cohesion. They have continued to engage in local peacebuilding initiatives, such as organising community dialogues, conflict resolution workshops and advocacy campaigns. Their efforts help address local grievances and build trust among communities affected by conflict. Women-led organisations have created vital spaces for inclusive dialogue, decision-making and sustainable peacebuilding, bridging divides and rebuilding trust within fractured communities.
Advocacy and awareness campaigns
Women and youth have led advocacy and awareness campaigns to highlight the impact of conflict on their communities and promote peace. They use various platforms, including social media, to raise awareness about issues such as gender-based violence and human rights abuses. Youth organisations like the Kenyan Youth Bunge Association promote dialogue, tolerance and social cohesion, offering a counter-narrative to challenges such as gender-based violence and high youth unemployment rates. These campaigns contribute to a broader understanding of the need for peace and security.
Support for victims of conflict
African women, in particular, have been involved in providing support to victims. They run shelters, offer counselling and advocate for justice and reparations for affected individuals. Their work is important in addressing the aftermath of conflict and supporting community healing.
One notable organisation is the African Women's Development Fund (AWDF). AWDF supports women's organisations across the continent, focusing on providing assistance to victims of conflict. Their initiatives include offering shelters, counselling services and advocacy for justice and reparations. They also organise training workshops in conflict prevention, early warning systems and non-violent strategies in conflict resolution for women leaders and youth activists from identified conflict-prone communities.
Another key organisation is Femmes Africa Solidarité (FAS), which works to promote and reinforce the role of African women in the prevention, management and resolution of conflicts. FAS has been instrumental in supporting survivors of gender-based violence by facilitating access to justice and providing psychological support.
Policy advocacy and engagement
Women and youth have also been active in advocating for policies that promote peace and security. They engage with national and regional policymakers to push for inclusive policies that address the needs and contributions of women and youth in peacebuilding. Their involvement helps shape policies that are more equitable and effective. The African Youth Ambassadors for Peace (AYAP), established by the African Union Peace and Security Council, includes youth representatives from all regions of Africa who advocate for the inclusion of youth in peace and security policies. According to the African Union, these ambassadors significantly contribute to promoting the Youth, Peace and Security agenda, which aims to integrate young people into all levels of decision-making processes related to peace and security on the continent. Their efforts have led to the adoption of national action plans that highlight the essential role of youth in peacebuilding.
Educational and capacity-building efforts
Both women and youth are involved in educational and capacity-building initiatives aimed at enhancing skills and knowledge in peacebuilding. According to the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), such initiatives are needed for effective conflict resolution and sustainable peace. Training programs, workshops and educational campaigns help equip them with the tools needed to contribute effectively to peace processes. The African Centre for the Constructive Resolution of Disputes (ACCORD) conducts extensive training programs for women and youth across the continent. These programs focus on conflict analysis, mediation techniques and leadership skills, empowering participants to become proactive agents of change. These efforts help build a new generation of peacebuilders who are well-prepared to address conflicts in their communities.
Cultural and artistic contributions
Through music, art and storytelling, women and youth address issues related to conflict and promote messages of peace and unity. UNESCO says, cultural and artistic expressions are powerful tools for reconciliation and social cohesion. African women and youth leverage their cultural heritage to promote understanding and healing among communities affected by conflict. The Nhimbe Trust in Zimbabwe supports artists in using theatre and music to promote peace and address social issues. Their performances often highlight the impact of conflict and advocate for peaceful coexistence. Another example is the Sierra Leonean youth organisation Fambul Tok, which uses traditional storytelling and community ceremonies to bring together former adversaries and facilitate reconciliation. These cultural contributions have a great impact in healing wounds, rebuilding trust and cultivating a sense of unity within fractured communities.
Despite the clear impact and substantial contributions of women and youth in peacebuilding, they often face significant barriers such as limited access to education, economic opportunities, and decision-making platforms. To fully harness their potential, we must dismantle these systemic obstacles and ensure their genuine participation in shaping policies and processes. Investing in comprehensive education, specialised training in conflict resolution and creating economic opportunities will empower these key groups to drive lasting peace and development across the continent. The boundless energy, creativity and determination of African women and youth are not just assets to be acknowledged but are essential forces for transformative change. Their involvement is also not just a matter of equity but rather a powerful catalyst for stability and transformative change on a grand scale. These examples only scratch the surface of their impact; their contributions extend far beyond and therefore we must continue to support and amplify their efforts because they have proven to be among the most effective and instrumental forces in driving sustainable peace and development.