BANELE MAGONGO
MBABANE – Government has noted that empowering women and girls is one of the major ways to address gender-based violence (GBV) in the country.
This was said by Deputy Prime Minister (DPM) Thulisile Dladla. She said this yesterday during the 68th Session of the Commission on the Status of Women, which is held in New York, USA.
The session’s theme is ‘Accelerating the achievements of gender equality and women empowerment by addressing poverty and strengthening institutions and financing with a gender perspective’. The DPM told the gathering on the steps taken by Government to address this challenge.
Dladla stated that the His Majesty’s Government has reviewed and adopted the National Gender Policy, which is aligned with global and regional targets such as the UN Sustainable Development Goals and the African Union Agenda 2063 (Aspiration 6). The policy aims to address gender inequalities on a national level, including emerging issues such as STEM, global trade, women peace and security, and climate change.
She mentioned the importance of gender equality and women’s empowerment in order to achieve social and economic development. She highlighted the daily challenges faced by ordinary women in the country, which can water down the efforts by Govenrment to address GBV.
“Systemic and societal gender disparities still exist, disproportionately affecting women and girls and rendering them the most vulnerable groups in society. They face challenges such as gender-based violence, unemployment, poverty, poor sanitation, early and unintended pregnancy, sexual violence and abuse,” said Dladla.
She emphasised the need for concerted efforts to address these issues and ensure that women and girls have equal access to opportunities and resources. The Deputy Prime Minister will be engaging with other delegates on issues related to women’s empowerment, gender equality, and poverty reduction.
