APRIL HIGHLIGHTS

WANEP-ECOWAS consultation on ECOWARN
WANEP Holds Sub-Regional Consultations for Institutional Strengthening.
WANEP- Partnership Meetings
Paper Presentations
From the National Networks
WANEP-BENIN
WANEP-NIGERIA
WANEP-GHANA
WANEP - SENEGAL
WANEP – COTE D’IVOIRE
WANEP-THE GAMBIA
WANEP-SIERRA LEONE
WANEP-GUINE BISSAU
From the WANEP-Liaison Office at the ECOWAS Secretariat-Abuja

WANEP-ECOWAS consultation on ECOWARN
April 2007 began with a high level consultation on “Operationalisation of the ECOWAS Early Warning System”. The consultation took place in Abidjan Cote D’Ivoire on the 2^nd and 3^rd April on “Determining Risk Factors for ECOWARN Indicators for Peace & Conflict Monitoring” Three main objectives was achieved during the 2 days. 

• The ECOWARN indicators for human security monitoring in West Africa were examined and evaluated.
• An identification, ranking (prioritization) and rating or calibration (ascribed weighted value) to the salient indicators for peace and conflict in West Africa was done.
• Recommendations for best practice were suggested with concrete ways forward outlined.

This consultation was important and against the background of progress that has been made in the operationalisation of ECOWARN. A Data base collection, processing and access; and exchange of information modalities have been laid down. A system (with pre-determined indicators) has been developed, consisting of a bulk data of close to 100 indicators of conflict and peace in West Africa. This computer based data base for systematic tracking and monitoring of conflict and peace trends has been in its testing phase since 2006. In addition to these developments, an information exchange bulletin has also been created to allow for comments, suggestions and additional input and information from key stakeholders. Apart from reviewing the indicators, recalibrating them according to different weights informed by the workings of the mechanism from its testing phase, the consultation reiterated the ECOWAS early warning system as human security focused with open source information. The ECOWAS Commissioner for Political Affairs Peace and Security, Colonel Mahamane Toure, appreciated the partnership and important role of Civil Society through WANEP in

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WANEP Holds Sub-Regional Consultations for Institutional Strengthening.
As part of the implementation of its strategic plan and in line with the commitment to enhance the institutional capacity of WANEP from the national to regional level, the Management Systems International (MSI), a Washington based organization with NGO development expertise has lend support to WANEP in organizing two sub-regional workshops for all the WANEP National Networks. These workshops were organized under the framework of the Capable Partners Program (CAP) of USAID. The first workshop brought together English speaking national networks from the 3^rd to 5^th April 2007. The second workshop brought together the French speaking national networks from the 17^th to 19^th April 2007. The objectives of the workshops included the following:

• Greater financial viability and autonomy through effective fund-raising strategies and mobilization of local resources.

• More active and effective participation of member NGOs in network operations and activities.

• Enhanced composition of National Network boards and the increased participation of Board members and staff in the strategic planning process and implementation, monitoring and evaluation of the activities undertaken.

• More effective advocacy through greater visibility and recognition and the strategic use of information.

These sub-regional workshops were preceded with national focused Institutional Development Framework (IDF) workshop for each of the 12 national networks. During the month of April that is currently highlighted, Niger took the initial first steps to establish a National Network. Ms. Halima Amadu has been designated as Niger-Focal Point Person for the emerging WANEP-Niger. WANEP is hoping to fully establish its network structures in Niger and Mali by the end of 2007.

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WANEP- Partnership Meetings
On the 23^rd and 24^th April, WANEP held meetings with the West Africa Regional Office of CRS and the West Africa Mission of USAID. These meetings were technical and appraised phase 2 of the Capacity Building Program.

During the month, The Executive Director of the New Field Foundation Ms. Sarah Hobson travelled to Liberia and Sierra Leone. Among the organizations she met was the WANEP National Networks in those countries. The New Field Foundation has been supporting the Women’s specialized program, Women in Peacebuilding Network (WIPNET).

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Paper Presentations
On 28^th April, WANEP presented 2 papers at the Institute for Local Government Studies (ILGS) in Accra and Tamale. WANEP is part of the Research and Advocacy Organizations (RAO) in Ghana and under this framework, the papers contributing to policy thinking within the context of Governance and Peacebuilding in Ghana. The first paper examined Peacebuilding Efforts in Northern Ghana: Lessons for Local Authorities while the second paper reviewed Civil Society Partnership with ECOWAS through WANEP.

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WANEP-Benin
In Benin, the month of April brought high expectations as the country waited for the final results and confirmation of Parliamentary elections held on 31st March 2007. WANEP Benin closely monitored all violence related incidences following the final declaration of the results. A member organization of WANEP-Benin published a research work on “Understanding the Rights of Families in Benin” The National Secretariat participated in several initiatives and meetings with local partners all aimed at enhancing good governance.

The NGO Droits de l’Homme, Paix et développement (DHPD), a member of the WANEP Network in Benin on 6th April published it findings following a comprehensive study on the rights of families in Benin. The title of the study; “The individual, the family and rights in the Republic of Benin” was published as a contribution to understanding law number 2002-07 of 24^th August 2004. It analyses the civil society perspective on the law and raises critical questions on social and family law in Benin.

A member of the Network participated on 9 April 2007 in a Training of Trainers with WLR-I (Women’s Legal Right Initiatives-Bénin/USAID) on law number 2006-19 of 5th September on sexual harassment and protection of victims. WANEP-Bénin is actively participating in the dissemination and education on this law in schools, colleges and the population at large.

WANEP-Bénin participated in a workshop with other CSOs in the framework of the Alliance for Governance in Africa. (www.afrique-gouvernance.net). The theme for this year is “Governance, Prevention, management and resolution of Conflicts” The WANEP-Benin National Network Coordinator was elected chair of the study group on governance, prevention, management and resolution of conflicts.

WANEP-Bénin was selected by the program OSCAR (Organisations de la société civile appuyées et renforcées) established in Benin in the framework of the 9th European Union Funds for Development. The Network will participate in training workshops on how to submit EU proposals. After restructuring the Network, WANEP-Benin now stands a good chance of benefiting from EU development funds.

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WANEP-Nigeria
WANEP Nigeria Board Chairman and National Network Coordinator were guest on the Africa Independent Television (AIT) program – Kakkaki. The two hours live program offered WANEP Nigeria an opportunity to take a critical look at the state of the nation as Nigeria concludes its general elections. As a major reference for information and analysis on election process through its “Election Barometer” (An early warning system designed to monitor the electioneering process), the TV program allowed WANEP Nigeria to share its findings and proffer solutions on how to curb electoral violence.

Similarly, the National Network Coordinator granted an interview to a German Radio station, DEUTSCHE WELLE, to discuss the outcome of the Nigerian elections and its implication to West Africa sub regional political economy.

WANEP Nigeria in April also renewed its contract with Herinch Boll Foundation – a German charity to continue its program on Community Women in Peacebuilding Process in the Niger Delta. The program is exploring ways of engaging community women in the Niger Delta, beginning with Delta state to be actively involved in issues of peace and human security through constructive engagement with various stakeholders especially the Oil companies

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WANEP-GHANA
NORTHERN REGIONAL CHAPTER OF WANEP GHANA RECEIVES TRAINING ON CONFLICT TRANSFORMATION AND ANALYSES TOOLS
As part of the capacity strengthening of its members, WANEP Ghana organised a two day conflict transformation training for sixteen (16) civil society organisations who are members of the network in the Northern region of Ghana. The network has established five (5) Regional chapters in 5 of the 10 regions of Ghana. Each regional chapter consisting of peacebuilding practitioners and organisations in their respective regions.

The training aimed at developing the skills and knowledge of participants in the understanding, early identification and analyses of violent conflicts in the Northern Region and to increase participants’ skills such that they are able to use conflict analyses tools for effective interventions into conflicts in the Northern Region

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WANEP - SENEGAL
In Senegal, the re-election of President Abdolulaye Wade and political agitation culminated in a swearing-in ceremony in April for second term of 5 years in Office. About 20 Heads of States and Governments from Africa attended. The elections were contested by opposition parties who have now decided to boycott parliamentary elections later this year. One of the member organizations of WANEP-Senegal-RADDHO initiated dialogue between the Government and the Opposition parties but this is yet to bear fruits.

From the 27th to 28th April, Wanep - Senegal organized a capacity building workshop with OXFAM GB support for Women leaders with a focus on policy making to enhance conflict resolution. Wanep- Senegal also participated in a capacity building workshop on good governance.

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WANEP – COTE D’IVOIRE
WANEP-Cote D’Ivoire presented a strategic plan to the public through the Ivorian media on 11th April 2007. 18 organizations now form part of the Network in Cote D’Ivoire. The Head of mission of the United Nations Mission in Cote D’Ivoire presided with 100 people participating. The role of civil society in promoting social reconciliation was highlighted. Preparation for the launch of an awareness campaign of N resolution 1325 was completed. The actual launch on 6th May will start the campaign which will cover 10 towns and cities in 10 regions of La Cote D’Ivoire covering the North southern, western central and eastern parts of the country.

From the 27th to 28 April, WANEP-Cote D’Ivoire organized a workshop in partnership with Green Light on the theme: communication pour le changement de comportement et le developpement durable. 14 people, 3 men and 11 women participated.

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WANEP-The Gambia
Symbolic Arms Destruction in The Gambia
WANEP-The Gambia concluded a pilot project on the control of small arms and lights weapons with the destruction of 29 (twenty nine) arms comprising of long guns and pistols with some ammunition at a highly publicized ceremony witnessed by the Secretary of State (the Minister) for the Interior, who was the chief guest of honour. The destruction ceremony took place in Koina, at the northern part of the country along the border with Senegal. The Koina community was a theatre of a spate of armed robberies three years ago before the commencement of this pilot project.

With the start of the project in April 2005, a massive sensitization campaign was undertaken in the Upper Region of The Gambia on the dangers and proliferation of small arms and light weapons. As a result of the enlightenment of the public and government’s amnesty, members of the communities voluntarily surrendered twenty-nine illicit weapons in exchange for three community projects.

At the destruction ceremony, the secretary of State for Interior, the deputy permanent secretary for the State of Defence and the commander of the national army were among the dignitaries that witnessed the destruction of the arms and ammunitions.

In the minister’s keynote address, he commended the initiative of WANEP and applauded the excellent partnership between his Ministry, the Ministry of Defence and WANEP. He went further to assure the gathering that the control of small arms and light weapons is a priority area of the government, who is working tirelessly for the safety and security of the Gambia. In his words,

“As a proof to that [government’s commitment to the fight against small arms], the Government was a signatory to the adoption of the draft ECOWAS Convention on Small Arms and Lights Weapons in June 2006 in Abuja during the ECOWAS Heads of State Summit.

The Government will not only stop at the adoption but the ratification of this very important Convention in ensuring peace and stability in the sub-region.”

The minister went on to unveil the four development projects that were provided in exchange for the arms surrendered by the community: two milling machines, the refurbishing and construction of the old and new milling machine sheds and the construction of a hand-pump well for the newly built health centre and a multi-purpose skills centre for the women.

The symbolic destruction which took place within the framework of the CIDA supported Sub-Regional Programme Small Arms and Lights Weapons (SRP-SALW), a two-year pilot project being carried out in three other countries, namely: Guinea, Guinea Bissau and Senegal.

This sub-regional initiative aims at improving the peace and security of people and communities in West Africa with the view to create an enabling environment for sustainable development. The project which started in April 2005 realized an increase in proper registration of inherited weapons and there has been a dramatic drop in crimes and arms related violence in Koina ward, a testimony to the success of the project.

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WANEP – SIERRA LEONE
Government of Sierra Leone Awards WANEP-SL’s Board member
We are pleased to witness the Presidential Award ceremony in which WANEP-SL Board member, Mrs. Memunatu Pratt was decorated with the Grand officer of the order of the Rokel on the 46^th Independence Anniversary in Sierra Leone.

Prior to this award, Mrs. Pratt was also a proud recipient as an external researcher for the University of Hiroshima in Japan.

Memunatu Pratt is head of Conflict Studies at Fourah Bay College, University of Sierra Leone and a stout believer in the ideals and values of WANEP. As Board member for the past two years, she had journeyed through critical peacebuilding issues and contributed immensely to the consolidation of peace in the country.

Mrs. Pratt has participated in series of consultations at home and abroad on the newly established United Nations Peacebuilding Commission (PBC) in Sierra Leone. 

Civil Society Meets with A Technical Team From The UN Peace Building Support Office
The PBSO technical team for New York, USA, has met with a cross-section of Civil Society organizations to work and come out with a draft document on the Integrated Peacebuilding Strategy for presentation at the May 2007 Country Specific Meeting in New York.

In a meeting conveyed at UNIOSIL conference room, the technical team said they were in the country to listen to the views of Civil Society as to how they will input into the Integrated Peacebuilding Strategy (IPBS) as well as other human rights issues in the country.

After debriefing civil society members on the updates of the Peace Building Commission and Peace Building Fund, they disclosed that 35 million dollars allocated for the implementation of projects under the four priority areas will now be released in September 2007, depending on the availability of the IPBS.

Even though civil society was not clear as to why the funds will be released in September, issues of monitoring and evaluation and the need for an effective communication strategy formed part of an agenda for discussion and deliberation.

There was a sign of relief when a government representative said the Government is committed to ensure that the PBC achieved its desired goals as in the words of the representative that peace and stability are paramount to the Government.

In all the interactive sessions, the critical role of Civil Society on the PBC was highlighted and gender mainstreaming as an important component for sustaining the peace was also emphasized for consideration in all the activities of the PBC. 

WANEP-SL and Hope-SL hold Clean Elections Dialogue
Clean Elections dialogue organized by the West Africa Network for Peacebuilding-Sierra Leone (WANEP-SL) and Hope-Sierra Leone was a political and Civil Society stakeholders’ engagement in creating a level playing field for the forthcoming Presidential and Parliamentary Elections. The dialogue attracted leaders of the nine registered political parties including their campaign managers. It aimed to enable political party’s activists to comply with the electoral procedure in accordance with international standards.

The training appealed to stakeholders for a positive change of attitudes towards the electioneering process. Delegates were reminded about the eleven years of civil conflict that the country went through and that a repeat of that can be disastrous and unprogressive.

Among topics covered were: Change - where to start? Forgiveness and Reconciliation, Search for values in politics and during elections, standing against corruption, trust building and team work etc. 

The training sessions ended with evaluations and exchanges of pleasantries and certification.

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WANEP-GUINE-BISSAU
WANEP GB provided capacity building support to the National Movement of civil society groups in Peace, Democracy and Development.  The training contributed  to reduce tensions following the political and social crises in January in which assassinations, rape and apprehension of political leaders were the order of the day.

The WANEP GB WIPNET program carried-out a mass-sensitization campaign for the involvement of Bissau’s women in the peacebuilding decision-making processes. As a result, women participation in the government have increased.  Five women were appointed to leadership positions compared to 2 in the preceding government. An opened letter was addressed to the President reminding the state of its commitments to international human rights treaties.  Guinea Bissau has ratified CEDAW, which calls for the full participation of women in decision-making processes.  The UN Resolution 1325 also calls for women full integration in all aspects of peace and security issues.   So the WANEP GB WIPNET program is urging the government to make women’s participation in peacebuilding real. 

GOOD GOVERNANCE AND TRANSPARENCY – RESOURCES AND CONFLICTS.
Plans are underway to make Guinea-Bissau commence the exploitation of minerals such as Kerosene, Bauxite and phosphates. However, some the sites where these minerals are concentrated are also home to unique vegetations and wild life (dauphins, hippopotamus etc.).  However, the country made a commitment to international conventions for the conservation of nature.

WANEP GB was selected to participate in an international Training of Trainers on revenue management and transparency in mining projects to participate in this project because of conflict implications it could generate. The training was hosted in Limbe, Cameroon and strategies were identified for the formation of control and surveillance groups made up of CSOs and the Government to curb misappropriation of revenues acquired from the mines.

ACTIVE PARTICIPATION OF CSOs IN THE GOVERNMENT
WANEP Guinea Bissau attained a temporary Advisory Status to the Internal Administration Ministry of the country along side other Civil Society Organizations which were also attached to different Ministries in the same capacity to promote stability in the country.

REGIONAL MEETING.
In the implementation of the “Peace Initiative” WANEP GB have been honored with the responsibility of coordinating the event of “People of Peace”. The central theme of the meeting will be on Civil-Military dialogue; a factor for peace in West Africa. With financial support from the German organization, GTZ through the Gorée Institute, the meeting will bring participants from 7 countries in the West African sub-region. As a preparatory phase, WANEP GB had a preliminary meeting with the State’s Major General of the armed forces in the person of Général Tagme Na Uai who, on behalf of the military forces lauded the idea of developing a synergy between the military and civil society organizations.

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From the WANEP-Liaison Office at the ECOWAS Secretariat-Abuja
The Liaison Office strategically continued to lubricate the WANEP-ECOWAS relationship. The planning and reporting compilation of the Abidjan indicators refinement and rating workshop was done with much support from the Liaison Officer who also served as rapporteur for the workshop. The LO also assisted in the planning meetings with the Director of the OMC and other staff in view of the forth coming trainings of monitors (ECOWAS Member States and Civil Society Focal Points) who would be charged with the responsibility of populating the ECOWARN System billed for the month of May.

The Liaison Officer also had an important briefing with the President of the ECOWAS Commission, Dr Mohamed Ibn Chambas on the current situation following the publication of the latest policy brief on Guinea. A similar analyses and discussion was made on the current situation in Cote d’Ivoire and Nigeria in line with WANEP role of always sharing its perspectives on current issues that affect peace and human security in the sub-region, proffering options for response.

 In addition, the Liaison Officer worked throughout the elections period in Nigeria in tandem with the WANEP-Nigeria team in monitoring the electoral process. A compilation and an analyses of the lessons learned from the Nigerian polls is underway and would certainly contribute immensely to the post-elections phase of peacebuilding and conflict prevention in Africa’s most populated country.  

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