Delegates of Negaad women's conference, Hargeysa

Hargeysa, Somaliland, December 29, 2007 (SL Times) – Somaliland women leaders have called upon their government to take practical steps to ensure that women play a much greater role in national politics including assumption of leadership roles.

Following a 3-day national conference that was concluded in Hargeysa on Thursday, Somaliland women activists demanded that both the administration and the parliament introduce new policies and legislation that are effective enough to facilitate broader participation and representation in government.

The conference was organized by NAGAAD, the national umbrella organization for women groups in Somaliland, and participated by delegates from the country’s six regions.

Delegates discussed and adopted a platform for action that aimed at advancing and improving women status in relation to political rights and decision-making.

The platform for action spells out a number of actions that should be taken by the government in order to achieve a greater opportunity for women. It urges the government to introduce free education for all with the aim of enabling more girls from poor families to attend schools.

Creation of a special national fund in support of women empowerment and advancement was also recommended.

The strategy is to enhance the social, economic and political empowerment of women. It seeks the improvement of women’s access to necessary education, health and legal services, urging all the 3 branches of government to carryout concrete actions and reforms in those areas.

Before its conclusion the conference was addressed by Somaliland minister for Rural Affairs Fuad Adan Adde.

The minister commended the women delegates for organizing the conference. “It is not a shame that you seek playing a greater leadership role in politics or in any other sphere. You may succeed where men have failed and become a role model for the nation” concluded the minister.

Source: Somaliland Times