In a significant step toward inclusive peacebuilding, Women Count for Peace, supported by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) in partnership with ELiDA, successfully conducted a one-day training workshop for media actors in Mekelle at Desta Hotel.
The training aimed to equip influential social media and mainstream media professionals with foundational concepts of the Women, Peace and Security (WPS) agenda, UN Security Council Resolution 1325, the National Action Plan (NAP), and the critical role of women in peacebuilding and conflict prevention all tailored to the specific context of the Tigray region. 

From Wukro to Mekelle: A Responsive Adaptation
The workshop was originally planned to take place in Wukro for 12 participants. However, due to the current fuel shortage making transportation extremely challenging, and because all targeted participants reside in Mekelle, the organizers made a strategic decision to move the venue to Mekelle. This change significantly eased access for attendees, ensuring higher attendance and punctuality.
Furthermore, the venue change generated budget savings, which allowed the organizers to increase the number of participants from 12 to 20, broadening the reach and impact of the training and engaging more media actors in advancing the WPS agenda.
High Engagement, Strong Representation. A total of 20 participants from governmental and private media outlets, as well as influential social media actors, took part in the training. Reflecting a strong commitment to gender inclusivity, 16 participants were women (80%) and 4 were men (20%). Notably, 50% of all participants were under the age of 35, highlighting the engagement of young voices in peace and security discourse.
The training was highly interactive, featuring group discussions, case studies, and practical exercises that enabled participants to connect global frameworks like UNSCR 1325 with local realities in Tigray.
Looking Ahead
By empowering media professionals—particularly women and youth—with the knowledge and tools to report responsibly on peace and security issues, the Women Count for Peace initiative continues to foster an enabling environment where women’s leadership in conflict prevention and peacebuilding is recognized, amplified, and sustained.