Women have consistently been the major victims of armed conflicts. They have been forced to shoulder multiple responsibilities as men, breadwinners, are tend to be part of the conflict.
Forcibly, they are expected to play double role of leading and protecting their families. Sadly, these women are also the ones that flee from their village in search for a safer place for their children. This is majorly the reason why women seek and value peace the most.
On one hand, resolving challenges through dialogue is not new in the country. Dialogue, mediation and reconciliation have been part of different culture in the nation. Moreover, it has been almost three years since the country established a National Dialogue Commission.
To this end, women, as part of the major segment of the society, have been playing a vital role throughout the commission’s activities over the past years. Women are expected to have greater role in the National Dialogue given its anticipated role in resolving differences peacefully and facilitating consensus on national issues.
The Ethiopian National Dialogue Commission is currently holding agenda gathering process in Oromia State which is estimated to draw over 7,000 participants from over 356 districts.
Representing women from Melka District at the Oromia State agenda gathering, Hurji Ali, emphasized that instability affects women the most. Holding dialogue has been part of nation’s indigenous knowledge.
The community has deep seated culture of resolving differences through mediating and discussing. The national dialogue would play an instrumental role to settle the major challenges in the country, she stressed.
“As a mother and woman, my only wish is to see a peaceful country where every citizen could move and live freely. The National Dialogue, in this regard, would play a significant role.”
She further indicated that mothers are highly regarded and respected in the Oromo culture. Thus, they will make use of their value in the society for the success of the National Dialogue.
For Aberash Qumbi, another representative from Wenji District, women, as part of the community that covers huge portion of the total population, hold high responsibility in the National Dialogue.
Women are the most vulnerable segment of the society when it comes to conflicts and insecurity. On the other hand, they have been taking a leading role in resolving problems in the society.
“Not only they have contributed in shaping their children and spouses, but they have played a major role in being part of various peace processes. Hence, they would also exert a similar responsibility in the National Dialogue.”
For her take on the issue, Yetnayet Tsegaye, a representative from West Harargie, expressed that women and children are the major victims of conflicts.
She mentioned that they need peace the most as they are the ones who are majorly affected during skirmishes. This is one of the reasons that the National Dialogue is highly anticipated by them to bring about sustainable peace in the country.
“The journey has not been easy. Nonetheless, the National Dialogue would serve as a golden opportunity to right past mistakes and build better country,” she underscored.
Highlighting her readiness to contribute her share, Yetnayet urged all participants particularly women to be active participant for the realization of the dialogue.
BY BETELHEM BEDLU
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD SATURDAY 21 DECEMBER 2024
