By: Aja Beyai
The Raise The Young Foundation has officially launched the Women Mediators’ Network in Bwiam, Foni Kansala District, marking a significant milestone in promoting women’s active participation in peacebuilding and conflict resolution across The Gambia.
Monday’s colorful ceremony drew community leaders, trained women mediators, government representatives, traditional authorities, and development partners who gathered to celebrate the initiative aimed at creating more inclusive and sustainable peace processes at the grassroots level.
Yankuba Kieta, Chief Executive Officer of Raise The Young Foundation, told the audience that peace cannot be achieved in isolation.
“Peacebuilding is not a one-sided matter. Both men and women are crucial partners in the process of peacebuilding,” he stressed, calling for deliberate collaboration between genders to address conflicts effectively.
Community Alkalo Pa Sainey Nyassi reinforced the message, arguing that empowering women as mediators would drastically reduce disputes in homes, workplaces, and broader society. “When women are fully involved in peace initiatives, we see quicker resolution and lasting stability,” the Alkalo noted.
Resource person Babucarr Sambou linked the new network to international commitments, highlighting United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325 (2000) on Women, Peace and Security. The resolution urges greater female participation in conflict prevention, protection, relief, and recovery efforts. Sambou explained that the network will equip Gambian women with practical mediation skills, knowledge, and platforms to serve as frontline agents of peace and resilience-building in their communities.
The launch concludes months of training and preparation and signals the beginning of structured support for women mediators across the country. Organizers say the network will expand gradually, establishing local chapters and linking members to national and regional peace structures.
Participants described the initiative as timely, especially as The Gambia continues transitional justice and reconciliation processes following decades of authoritarian rule. By centering women’s voices, the Women Mediators’ Network is expected to strengthen community-level dialogue, prevent escalation of disputes, and contribute to a more equitable and peaceful society.
The Raise The Young Foundation has committed to providing ongoing mentorship, refresher training, and logistical support to ensure the network delivers tangible results in homes and villages throughout The Gambia.
