Women in Somalia have played an integral role in the country's quest for peace, stability and progress, according to the United Nations Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed.

Ms. Mohammed's remarks comes following her one-day visit to Somalia, which was part of a joint UN-African Union trip to the Horn of Africa region, focusing on women, peace and security.

"The opportunity to hear from a diverse range of voices about the role of Somali women in different spheres of life drove home just how vibrant and engaged they are, and also how committed they are to ensuring that the role of women and gender equality is factored into all facets of life here." said the Deputy Secretary-General.

"This means challenging some outdated traditional views on the role of women and creating a space for them to be able to fulfill their potential."

The delegation underscored the importance of women's meaningful participation in elections, efforts to counter extremism, and the economic development of Somalia.

Ms. Mohammed was joined in the visit by AU Special Envoy on Women, Peace and Security, Bineta Diop, and the Special Envoy of the UN Secretary-General for the Horn of Africa, Parfait Onanga-Anyanga.

The delegation met with Prime Minister Hassan Ali Khayre and cabinet ministers from the Federal Government of Somalia to hear about government policies affecting women, as well as with female civil society leaders.

They also met with senior officials from the UN Assistance Mission in Somalia (UNSOM), UN Support Office in Somalia (UNSOS) and UN agencies, funds and programmes.

Following her visit of Somalia, Ms. Mohammed is scheduled to travel to Sudan, where she is due to meet the President, Prime Minister, and other senior politicians, as well as civil society and women leaders.

Source: UN