WOMEN BUILDING PEACE: Insights from the Cameroon’s Defence Forces.
In prelude of the commemoration of the 39th edition of the International Women’s Day, women of the Defence and Security Forces held a round table debate that brought together military officials, security experts and other stakeholders to discuss on the theme « WOMEN AND PEACE » on Monday March 4, 2024 at the Multipurpose Hall of the Headquarters Brigade in Yaounde.

The capacity building conference organized by the Department of Administrative and Regulatory Affairs of the Ministry of Defence acted as a kicker of activities to commemorate the 39th edition of the International Women’s Day within the Cameroon Defence Forces.

The aim of this round table debate was to drill military and civilian women in the Yaounde garrison on how to reinforce their intellectual, physical and financial potentials of military as a sign to show that irrespective of their call to arms they too are women. Under the coordination of Research Officer and Gender focal point of the Ministry of Defence, Navy Commander Etondy Songue Alice, topics such as woman, a key factor in peacebuilding and the United Nations resolution 1325 and its implimentation in the Defence Forces were likely addressed to help identify strategies and action plans to strengthen the country’s defence capabilities and ensure its long-term security.

It was also a way to brainstorm on how to promote peace, equality in the Defence Forces as well as in their respective families and also how to overcome challenges faced by women in conflict zones and ways to empower women in peacekeeping efforts. Their dedication to peace and security is an essential to all. Cameroonian women in the Defence Forces play an essential role in promoting peace and resolving conflicts. Their presence strengthens peacekeeping operations and help build trust within communities.