City Administration. In these initiatives a group of women from different backgrounds, Religious leaders, Civil Society representatives, Academicians and Communities Leaders from different conflict-affected communities gathered to learn basic principles of conflict resolution, mediation, and negotiation, as well as the importance of communication, empathy, and active listening skills and strategies for promoting peaceful coexistence and resolving conflicts in their communities. The training focused on conflict resolution, communication, leadership, and community engagement.
During the training, the women, religious leaders, civil society representatives, academicians and leaders from various community participated in various activities such as role playing scenarios, questions and answers, group discussions, and experience sharing. They also heard firsthand accounts from former peace negotiators and human rights activists to broaden their understanding on the peacebuilding process.
One of the participants, Mrs. Alemwerk from Wolldia Peace and administration Office, a community leader from a conflict-ridden area, shared her understanding as follows: “I am excited joining this training. I have gained a lot of knowledge on how to deal with conflict and also learned about the importance of dialogue and negotiation in peacebuilding.”
The participant’s completed and left the training with newfound confidence and skills to actively engage in peacebuilding and conflict resolution process and then facilitate a positive change in their communities. The FBCO behind the training program highlighted the important role that women can play in building peace and resolving conflicts. Also plans to continue offering similar trainings to more number of women in the future.
