| Recognizing the essential contributions women can make in peacekeeping, humanitarian aid, and post-conflict peacebuilding, the United Nations Security Council adopted Resolution 1325 on October 31, 2000. This resolution urged member states to develop National Action Plans (NAPs) that formalize policies supporting their implementation. NAPs serve as strategic tools for policymakers to translate the international mandates of the WPS agenda into national action. This study seeks to address two related questions: (a) what do the NAPs in Africa reveal about their focus regarding women, peace, and security-related issues and their impact on women (b) Can the process of diffusion explain the proliferation of NAPs in Africa. To do this, this paper analyzes the 41 African National Action Plans (NAPs) from 33 African countries that developed the plans. The dissertation concludes with key insights, considerations and recommendations for Africa for future NAP research and implementation. Keywords: Women, Diffusion, UNSCR 1325, NAP, Pillars |