In August 2020, a high-Level virtual consultation was facilitated by the Office of the Special Envoy of the Chairperson of the African Union Commission on Women, Peace, and Security; UN Women, as AWLN global co-conveners. The event focused on enhancing the role and effective participation of Mali women in overcoming the crisis in Mali, building social cohesion, and strengthening the Malian state for sustainable peace and development. This solidarity mission was held in support of the women of Mali. The event brought together 59 women leaders representing different social-political backgrounds in Mali. Representatives from ECOWAS, the African Union, the United Nations with participation from HE Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations, Amina Mohammed, African Union Commissioner for Political Affairs, Ambassador Minata Samate Cessouma, Dr. Phumzile Mlambo Ngcuka, Executive Director of UN Women and many dignitaries. All in attendance expressed solidarity with the women of Mali and offered their support to continuous mobilization and advocacy in other to echo the voices, ensure the concerns of the women are considered by national, regional, and international bodies. Participants stressed the need for adequate inclusion and effective participation of women in governance and political transition. The government of Mali was called on to strengthen the mechanisms for the protection of women’s rights against gender-based violence and humanitarian support to be rendered to women and girls in the crisis. Dignitaries at the event committed to technical and financial support and mobilization of resources to support the women of Mali as they advocate for peace.
