Nii Martey M. Botchway
Accra, Feb 24, GNA – The Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre (KAIPTC), has opened a gender mainstreaming and sensitization working for Gender Focal Points of the centre.
The five-day workshop, which opened Monday, February 24, 2025 aims at equipping participants with the tools, and knowledge needed to promote gender equality and inclusivity within their work space.
In his opening remarks, Air Commodore (Cmdr) David Akrong, the Deputy Commandant of KAIPTC, emphasized the importance of gender mainstreaming in achieving peace and security.
He said, Gender mainstreaming was not just a policy or a checkbox exercise, but a transformative approach that required deliberate and sustained efforts to address inequalities, challenge stereotypes, and create an inclusive environment for all.
Air Cmdr Akrong encouraged the participants to actively engage in the discussions, share their experiences, and learn from one another.
“Let us remember that gender mainstreaming is not just about women; it is about creating a world where everyone, regardless of gender, has equal opportunities to contribute to, and benefit from peace, security, and development”.
“I look forward to the outcomes of this workshop, and to seeing the positive impact of your work in the days ahead,” he said
Ms Horname Noagbesenu, the Acting Director of the Women, Youth Peace and Security Institute (WYPSI), at the KAIPTC, noted that gender mainstreaming was important for achieving organizational goals and promoting a fair and inclusive workplace.
She said, “by integrating gender perspectives into all policies, programs, and activities, we can ensure that the needs, concerns, and experiences of both men and women are taken into account.”
The participants would explore key concepts, share best practices, and discuss practical ways to implement gender-responsive initiatives, Ms Noagbesenu said.
Also, implementing gender mainstreaming could lead to increased productivity and efficiency, she added.
Ms Noagbesenu said also, that gender mainstreaming was essential for achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) related to gender equality.
She said the KAIPTC, was excited for the initiative that would help contribute to promoting gender equality at the centre.
The workshop is supported by the Swedish government as part of its commitment to promoting the Women, Peace and Security Agenda in Africa.
GNA