CAGEAD Celebrates her peace clubs at the commemoration of UNSCR 1325 anniversary

In an event that brought together community leaders, women, and peace advocates, the Center for Advocacy in Gender Equality and Action for Development (CAGEAD) marked two significant milestones: the 25th anniversary of United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325 (UNSCR 1325) and the 5th anniversary of the SheBuildsPeace campaign. 

Twenty-five years ago, UNSCR 1325 was adopted to emphasize the importance of women's participation in peace and security processes. Since then, communities worldwide have embraced its principles, with CAGEAD leading the charge locally by establishing and nurturing Community Peace Clubs. These clubs serve as grassroots platforms promoting dialogue, conflict prevention, and gender-sensitive peacebuilding initiatives.

The SheBuildsPeace campaign, launched five years ago by CAGEAD, has further galvanized community efforts to empower women as peacebuilders. The campaign emphasizes that sustainable peace is rooted in gender equality, women’s leadership, and community participation.

During the event, several community peace clubs showcased their impactful work and shared inspiring testimonies. Notable among these were: ND'A D'KA'A YI FINI Community Peace Club (Manji), ND’A MBONE Community Peace Club (Mankaha), ND'A NEDORE Community Peace Club (Njibujang), ND'A MBOUCE Community Peace Club (Mbebali), EFORTI Community Peace Club (Mbengwi), NKONG-NGENGSE Community Peace Club (Njinikom), BARKA community Peace Club (Ntambang), AKONIKWETEH community peace Club (SISIA), just to name these.

These clubs, under the umbrella of CAGEAD’s network of over 51 active peace clubs, exemplify grassroots resilience and commitment to peacebuilding. They organize community dialogues, conflict mediation, gender sensitization workshops, and advocacy campaigns that foster social cohesion.

The event was further enriched by heartfelt testimonies from members of these clubs, illustrating the tangible impact of their work. In BARKA Community Peace Club (Ntambang) 

 A young woman member shared, "Through our club, I have learned the importance of dialogue in resolving conflicts. I now feel empowered to advocate for peace in my community and encourage women to participate actively." 

Also, NKONG-NGENSE community Peace Club (Njinikom), One of the community women noted, "Our peace club has helped reduce misunderstandings between ethnic groups, fostering harmony and mutual respect." 

Meanwhile, from EFORTI Community Peace Club (Mbengwi) A woman leader highlighted, "Our focus on gender equality has empowered women to take leadership roles, strengthening peace initiatives from within."

The Center for Advocacy in Gender Equality and Action for Development has been instrumental in establishing and supporting these community peace clubs. Their work emphasizes that grassroots participation is vital for sustainable peace. With over 50 peace clubs actively engaged across various communities, CAGEAD continues to build capacities, provide resources, and facilitate networking among peace advocates.

Looking ahead, CAGEAD aims to expand the reach of community peace clubs, integrate more women and youth into peace processes, and advocate for policies that uphold UNSCR 1325 principles at all levels of governance.

The celebration of these milestones by CAGEAD not only honors past achievements but also reaffirms a collective commitment to peace, gender equality, and community resilience. The stories of the peace club members serve as testament to the power of grassroots activism in shaping a peaceful and equitable future. As communities continue to build on these foundations, the dream of lasting peace grounded in gender equality becomes ever more attainable.

By Emmanuela Monie