Chairperson, the South African government's commitment in its support, especially to women, was displayed at the United Nations Security Council. South Africa capitalised on the opportunity as the lead nation in the Council, that the month of October, be one of a call for the meaningful participation of women in all levels. These levels include the following. Peace processes, investing in women as peace builders, protecting the human rights of women and ensuring that there is swift accountability to those who perpetrate heinous crimes such as sexual violence. The resolution has been adopted unanimously, in a rare display of unity of purpose, in a Council starkly divided on issues of peace and security.
South Africa, in its deliberations was clear that there is a need to strengthen reporting requirements and support for women and children in conflicting situations. This opportunity gave women from the Democratic Republic
of Congo, Central African Republic, Burundi and Sudan, to speak of their pain, hopes and expectations. The Center for Reproductive Rights has praised South Africa's leadership, commending the South African government for its commitment to the rights of women and girls during its presidency in the Council. Malibongwe! I thank you.