Minister Urges Promotion Of Women And Peace In Homes

Panafrican News Agency (Dakar), 8 March 2001

Port Louis, Mauritius - Seychelles social affairs and manpower development minister William Herminie Thursday urged the Seychellois population to reflect on how to better promote women and peace in their homes, communities and in the country.

According to news monitored from Port Louis, in his message to mark International Women's Day, Herminie said: "The women's day is dedicated by the United Nations to women and peace.

"This is to recognise that women have an important role to play in conflict prevention, resolution and peace whether it be in the home, in the community and in society at large.

"Whilst many of our sisters are fighting daily for survival, we in Seychelles are proud to have maintained a happy and peaceful environment free of wars and conflict."

According to the minister, domestic violence is a social ill that is becoming increasingly a way of life for some families.

"We are aware that our women are also subjected to other forms of violence. As a caring society, we deplore any violence. Therefore, on this occasion of Women's Day, I urge each and everyone to reflect on how we can better promote women and peace in our homes, our communities and in our country", he added.