Women and peace
The marginalisation of women within society and from peace processes continues to be a major obstacle in the development of peace.
The United Nations Security Council resolution 1325 calls for international and national actors to promote the participation of women in 
peacekeeping and conflict resolution. It also explicitly acknowledges the gender dimensions of conflict and urges actors to ensure that through promoting women's participation in peacebuilding processes that any kind of settlement following conflict is gender sensitive and takes into account the specific needs of women.
RTC believes that women occupy a unique position in society and potentially in peace processes - their marginalisation offers a sense of neutrality that allows them to work across religious, cultural and ethnic divides towards peace. Throughout our work, RTC seeks to support women to build the confidence and skills they need to become active participants in the peaceful development of their communities.
Training of Trainers for Women in Peace Leadership
In late August, RTC, in partnership with the Coalition for Peace in Africa (COPA) invited women peace builders from East and West Africa to participate in an intensive learning programme. Twenty three women took part from countries such as Kenya, Uganda, Ethiopia, the Central Africa Republic (CAR), Sudan, Nigeria and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). During the training, these women peace builders were able to develop an advanced understanding of conflict transformation and the skills to be able to spread what they have learned to others.
"I am living testimony that exposure of women is very important. I was not always like this. I used to be shy and could hardly facilitate sessions. The skills and coaching I have received has enabled me to find my way in this field and also given me the momentum to reach out to my fellow women".
Yewubnesh, Ethiopia
Throughout the course the women were able to build their confidence as trainers and facilitators and develop advanced communication skills through the preparation and delivery of presentations on various issues such as women in conflict, gender and peacebuilding. The role of the facilitator and trainer was explored and participants practised delivering sessions and giving and receiving feedback. The participants had the opportunity to network, share information, experiences and learn from one another.
As part of the training, the group where supported as they began planning their next steps in supporting their own communities. 
Lydia Kihiko from Lusanod in Somaliland is planning to work with marginalised women and youth in areas which have experienced high levels of conflict, to encourage them to participate in the peace process within their communities.
Katherine Hoomlong from Plateau State in Nigeria intends to provide training in capacity building to people in the informal sector which will include women, men, youth and community faith leaders. This will be a continuous process and will aim to equip the people involved with mediation, conflict transformation and conflict resolution skills.
Women peace builders throughout Africa find it incredibly difficult to access the training and support they so desperately need. Many do not have financial support and many are from remote areas which makes accessing training difficult. RTC would like to thank the Society of the Holy Child Jesus for making this work possible.
"We really appreciate the work that COPA and RTC are doing in bringing women practitioners together and in building our capacities. Please continue to provide more training for women so that we can be empowered and be capable to continue our work." TOT participant