The Role of Women in Post Conflict Reconstruction of Human Settlements in Mogadishu, Somalia

Abstract

Due to their importance in peacekeeping and development, women's participation in country programmes is important to the achievement of post-conflict reconstruction. In Somalia, there is a robust influx of women as planners and decision-makers, supporting the implementation of various projects in various areas within the post-conflict context. Despite significant efforts to involve women in post-conflict reconstruction in Somalia, their role in rebuilding human settlements in Mogadishu is unclear, as little emphasis is paid to understanding the role women play in this area. The overall goal was to examine the role of women in post-conflict human settlement reconstruction in Mogadishu, Somalia, with an emphasis on; documenting contributions of women in policy making and monitoring activities to post conflict reconstruction of human settlements and examining the effects of women’s participation in the policy implementation arena. The underpinning theory in this study is the Gender and Development Theory. The study employed a descriptive design involving the use of triangulation in data collection. The target population included 46 women groups, 26 United Nations Agencies and 81 Non-Governmental Organizations. Using purposive sampling, the study obtained a sample population of 60 women respondents from 4 women groups, two United Nations Project Managers and 2 Non-Governmental Organizations Project Officers. Data was collected using questionnaires and key informants interview guides . Data was analyzed using qualitative and quantitative techniques. The study concludes that women have a decisive role in policy making to post conflict reconstruction of human settlements. They are crucial to the formation of inclusive post-conflict reconstruction of human settlements policies and are active role players in decision-making. Women are, therefore, vital components in the implementation of reconstruction processes that result in lasting peace and prosperity. We recommend that their involvement be cascaded to enhance sustainable post-conflict reconstruction of human settlements.