Situation of Women in Somalia: Statement
Kenya's national statement, delivered by Amb. Martin Kimani, Permanent Representative
Thank you, Madame President and thank you Deputy Secretary General Amina Mohammed on your observations and recommendations deriving from your recent visit to Somalia in solidarity with Somali women.
We were glad to receive you in Kenya in mid-September and I would like to underline that women and peace and security remains one of Kenya's stated priorities.
Kenya as one of the WPS Trio alongside Ireland, Kenya and Mexico is indeed invested in showcasing the essential contribution of particularly local women to the maintenance of international peace and security, and in this case Somali women's role in the stability, peace and prosperity of the country.
In this regard, Ms. Shukria Dini, we thank you for your briefing and observations on ways this Council can strengthen its investment and support for full and equal participation in political life and women's economic empowerment.
We commend the Federal Government of Somalia for the 2019 development of Somali's National Action Plan on Women, Peace and Security and urge acceleration in its finalization, adoption and implementation.
Women have particularly proved to have a crucial role in grassroots and inter-communal dialogue and mediation roles particularly in mitigating against radicalisation.
Support to such women-led initiatives and efforts will go a long way in addressing the social, political economic and security grip that Al Shabaab and other terrorist groups have at the ground level.
The unyielding efforts of the UN, and other international partners in support of Somalia should also strive to integrate regional and local gender advisers and focal points from the AU and IGAD - before, during and after elections - for the sustainability of efforts to promote inclusive conflict prevention and mediation.
In conclusion Madam President, we urge UNSOM to continue to take fully into account gender considerations as a cross-cutting issue throughout its mandate and reinforce its efforts to support, engage and consult with local women leaders and civil society organisations engaged in nation and peacebuilding efforts.
I thank you.