Deployed Women in the African Union Mission Mandate in Dhobley Somalia between 2013 And 2023
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Date
2025-06
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Kenyatta University
Abstract
The African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) constitutes a peacekeeping initiative supported by the African Union (AU) and authorized by the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). It is committed to assisting the Federal Government of Somalia (FGS) to stabilize the country, counter extremist groups, and promote peace and security. AMISOM's mandate included various activities, such as providing security, supporting the political process, offering humanitarian assistance, and emphasizing gender balance in peace and security efforts. The mission had been actively involved in addressing the complex challenges facing Somalia and helping to create an environment favourable to long-term peace and prosperity in the country. The research study had three primary objectives. Firstly, it assessed the level of participation of women deployed by AMISOM in conflict resolution activities within the AU Mission in Dhobley, Somalia from 2013 to 2023. Secondly, it aimed to evaluate the distinctive role played by AMISOM's deployed women in addressing gender-based violence. Finally, the study conducted a thorough examination of the crucial role played by women in promoting human rights within the African Union Mission in Dhobley, Somalia, during the specified period. Feminist Peace and Conflict Resolution Theory guided the study. The research employed a descriptive survey research design blending qualitative and quantitative data collection methods. The study focused on Dhobley, Somalia, with particular emphasis on AMISOM's sector II headquarters. A diverse set of stakeholders, including military personnel, policymakers, and representatives from international organizations affiliated with AMISOM, were engaged through in-depth interviews and questionnaires. A random sampling approach and purposive sampling was adopted to select participants encompassing active military personnel, police personnel, civilians, security experts, and key informants from the Ministry of Defence. The total sample size comprised 356 respondents, drawn from a target population of 1780. The research captured comprehensive insights by collecting and critically analysing qualitative data thematically. Quantitative data was collected, and descriptive statistical analysis methods including percentages, frequencies, and measures of central tendency were employed. The research findings underscored the substantial contribution of women deployed in AMISOM. They have played a pivotal role in addressing gender-based violence, advancing human rights protection, and enhancing conflict resolution endeavours. While there was widespread recognition of women's involvement and leadership in these initiatives, there were also areas for improvement, including enhancing the visibility and effectiveness of women's participation, addressing leadership impediments, and promoting institutional support for gender equality. The study recommends the implementation of specific strategies to promote women's participation and leadership in conflict resolution endeavours. This entails fostering closer partnerships with local stakeholders, providing adequate backing and support for women-led initiatives, and incorporating gender viewpoints into mission policies and practices. These recommendations aimed at maximizing the potential of deployed women in promoting safety, security, and gender equality in the community, ultimately contributing to sustainable peace and security in Somalia.
Description
A Research Project Submitted to the School of Law, Arts and Social Sciences in Partial Fulfilment of the Requirements for the Award of the Degree of Master of
Arts in International Relations and Diplomacy of Kenyatta University, June 2025
Supervisors:
1. John Omboto