MOGADISHU, March 8 (Xinhua) -- African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) Wednesday commended female peacekeepers serving in Somalia and women across the world for their contribution to security and stability in the region and the continent.
"Today, we take this opportunity to reflect and recognize the unique role women play in advancing peace and development and celebrate their achievements globally," Mohammed El-Amine Souef, the head of the ATMIS, said in a statement issued in the Somali capital of Mogadishu to mark International Women's Day.
According to Souef, the AU (African Union) mission is cognizant of the urgent need to increase the involvement of women in peace support operations by embracing technology and innovation to bridge the digital divide as well as open more spaces and opportunities for women and girls.
"We call for the scaling up of investment in women and girls through equal access to education, creation of jobs and opportunities to empower them economically and justice to lift up communities and all," he said.
Souef paid special tribute to all the 923 and 191 ATMIS female military and police officers, respectively, for their selfless and extraordinary contribution to the peace process in Somalia.
"ATMIS stands with the people of Somalia to ensure a stable and secure Somalia, promoting causes for gender equality and increased inclusion of women in all spheres of life, for the advancement of entire Somalia," he said. ■