The Contribution of Women to Peace and Reconciliation

The road to peace for Somalia currently seems uncertain. However, ordinary
Somalis, whether living inside or outside Somalia, are fed up with
this senseless violence. They want peace, stability and a state. The important
activities such as the delivery of basic social services by the Somali
civil society, including those led by women, are not only pertinent
to maintaining the survival of vulnerable groups, but also for paving the
way for peace and recovery. The work of Somali civil society and NGOs
needs to be recognized, nurtured and supported. They are indeed important
actors who can contribute to the recovery and rehabilitation of a
war-traumatized population.
If and when the firing dies down, there will be a need to address the
traumas caused by the conflict. Currently, “forgive and forget” is emphasized
in Somalia. Forgiveness is important, but forgiveness alone will
not mend the hearts of traumatized people. It is important that the legal
system in the post-conflict period provide victims of violence with justice
and protection. Psychosocial programmes need to be made available to
victims of all forms of violence. Healing prayers can also help some of
the war victims, and post-conflict programmes must be designed to
meet the particular needs of war victims and gender-based violence.
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