BY BANELE MAGONGO
MBABANE – The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) in Eswatini has reaffirmed its commitment to addressing gender-based violence (GBV) in Eswatini.
UNFPA Head of Office Margaret Thwala-Tembe During the Launch of the UN-MTN Bushfire partnership media launch Held at Malandelas, Malkerns today.
She stated that the Bushfire festival was not just about music, art, and culture. She said it was also a platform for advocacy, awareness, and action. She described it as a call to amplify the voices of survivors, challenge harmful stereotypes, and foster solidarity among all stakeholders.
According to Tembe, UNFPA in partnership with other UN agencies and allies, undertook comprehensive programmes in Eswatini to address GBV. One such program, funded by the European Union (EU), was the Hlonipheka Thriving for Dignity program, which aimed to prevent and respond to GBV through community outreach, capacity building, and policy advocacy. The initiative, according to Tembe, sought to create a safer and more equitable environment for survivors of GBV, while also holding perpetrators accountable for their actions.
She stated that, amid these challenges, there was hope and (UNFPA) stood at the forefront of the global fight against GBV. Guided by the principles of equality, dignity, and justice, UNFPA, according to Tembe, worked tirelessly to empower individuals, communities, and governments to challenge harmful norms and build a world where every person, including persons with disabilities could live free from violence and discrimination.
Tembe urged the community to come together, as no single sector or entity could tackle this issue alone. The organisation stressed that ending this scourge requires a multi-sectoral approach involving governments, civil society organisations, communities, and development partners. Communities were encouraged to challenge harmful gender norms and promote respect and equality, while collective efforts and commitment from all stakeholders were emphasised. She called for bold actions, relentless advocacy, and unwavering solidarity in the pursuit of a world free from gender-based violence.
