Casamance: Women mediators commit to lasting peace under the impetus of UN Women

In Ziguinchor, the presidents of women's organizations launched the Casamance Circle of Mediators. In the presence of the UN Women Regional Director, Dr. Maxime Houinato, this first meeting brought together local authorities, traditional queens, and civil society to strengthen the momentum of the peace process and place social cohesion at the heart of priorities.

Ndeye Marie Diédhiou Thiam, president of the Platform of Women for Peace in Casamance (PFPC), recalled that this initiative marks a decisive step: “We have retraced the peace process and emphasized the challenges. It is time to return to the grassroots, to consult the women who had given us their approval and to tell them where we stand.”

The momentum generated by the laying down of arms in Diakaye must continue and expand to Kassolol, Salif Sadio, and other MFDC factions. The women mediators also intend to call upon the Senegalese government to fully address the Casamance issue. A document will be submitted to the President of the Republic outlining the shortcomings of the Diomaye Plan and proposing solutions tailored to the needs of the population.

For UN Women, this meeting is part of a strategic mission to strengthen political and administrative relations with regional authorities and to consolidate gains in peace and social cohesion. Alphouseyny Diallo, head of the field office in Ziguinchor, emphasized: “There can be no lasting peace without the involvement of women. They are the driving force for peace, especially in mediation activities.”

The Circle of Mediators aims to be a space for dialogue and action, led by the presidents of women's organizations in Casamance, but intended to expand to include women from other regions of Senegal, as well as those from neighboring Gambia and Guinea-Bissau. This first meeting, chaired by Dr. Maxime Houinato, marks the beginning of a dynamic process destined to grow, embedding peace in daily life and making Casamance a land of cohesion and shared development.

Max Euclid KANFANY