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ImplementingSecurity Councilresolution onwomen, peaceand securityHigh Level Policy Dialogue on nationalimplementation of Security Councilresolution 1325 (2000) in AfricaAddis Ababa, Ethiopia6 February 2008This dialogue aims to raise awareness on why Resolution 1325should be implemented in Africa, especially in countries emergingfrom conflict. It also aims to build national capacities, includingof national mechanisms on gender equality and the advancementof women, to accelerate implementation of Resolution 1325. Theseare commendable objectives, especially in Africa, which registersthe largest number of armed conflicts in the world. None of ourcountries is spared: they are either in conflict, resolving conflict, orinvolved, one way or another, with displaced persons, mediation orpeace building.Unfortunately the impact of wars and conflicts is highly gendered.Women are not only victims of conflicts; in many wars in Africa, theyhave also been fighters. They have been active participants, especiallyin wars of liberation. Together with men, they have carried armsand taken up the role of nurses and care-givers in many conflict situations.The Security Council (SC) Resolution 1325 on Women, Peace and Security,which was unanimously adopted in October 2000, serves asa milestone with respect to its recognition of, and commitment to,addressing women’s experiences in armed conflict. The presenceof ministers and senior officials from several African countries thatare in conflict, emerged from conflict, or involved in peacemaking is240 Part Five