Khartoum, Sudan, 26 November 2109 - Under the theme “All for Maputo Protocol Programme”, the African Union Delegation with the Sudanese Women converged for a Capacity Building Workshop on Human Rights and Women, Peace and Security, which open today 26 November 2019, in Khartoum, Sudan.

Organized by the AUC Women, Gender and Development Directorate in partnership with the Peace and Security Programme (GPSP); the Solidarity for African Women's Rights (SOAWR) Network; and the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), the workshop seeks to strengthen the ability of Sudanese women to be able to effectively advocate for the promotion and protection of women’s rights, including the ratification of women’s rights instruments and for women’s impactful and equal inclusion in peace processes in their country

Addressing the Opening ceremony, H.E. Ambassador Mohamed Belaiche, Head of Mission, and African Union Liaison Office in Sudan (AULOS) highlighted that this workshop comes at an exciting period for creating a new Sudan, based on freedom, peace and justice. The African Union Commission (AUC) undertook a High-Level Solidarity Mission to the Republic of Sudan between 26 and 30 August, 2019. He also reiterate the Solidarity Mission, led by the Special Envoy on Women, Peace and Security (OSE on WPS), H.E. Mme Bineta Diop that aimed at supporting the women of Sudan in their endeavours for a democratic, peaceful and inclusive Sudan, which incorporates women in decision-making at all levels has been impactful for Sudanese women.

H.E. Ambassador Rahma Salin, Ministry of Foreign Affairs noted that Women’s rights, peace and security are at the top of the Ministry’s priorities. It is important to remember that the Sudanese women played a central role in the political and social life in Sudan as well as in the revolution to end the years of Bashir rule. She emphasized that the Maputo Protocol which entered into force in 2005 is considered one of the most important instruments to guarantee comprehensive rights of women and to eliminate discrimination against women. For the first time Sudan has 4 female Ministers. Real action for women empowerment has started in Sudan and there is a strong determination on a new Sudan free of discrimination against women. Mostly importantly, she reminded the participants that without the involvement of men, women empowerment cannot be achieved. We need to launch a strong appeal to all men to be part of this.

The workshop will also provide knowledge on Women’s Rights as well as the Women, Peace and Security Frameworks; and strengthen skills to contribute to the development and implementation of the National Action Plans on UNSCR 1325 and on Human Rights. The workshop will draw participation from civil society organizations from different parts of the country.
For media enquiry and interview requests please contact:
Ms. Afrah Thabit / Communication Officer / Directorate of Information and communication E mail; Thabitma@africa-union.org Tell : +251911-200922
Ms. Susan Nyabena/ Junior Programme Officer/ Women Gender and Development Directorate. Email: nyabenaS@africa-union.org Tell : +0944-083113
For further information contact
Directorate of Information and Communication | African Union Commission I E-mail: dic@africa-union.org I Web Site: www.au.int I Addis Ababa | Ethiopia

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