BY DELISA THWALA
MBABANE– The United States of America (USA) Embassy, in partnership with Women and Law in Southern Africa-Swaziland, convened over 60 women for an inspiring day of discussions.
They were charting the way forward for aspirant women politicians. The participants, from all four regions were reinvigorated and re-energized as they listened to the stories of former and current women politicians.
They were further capacitated on public speaking, understanding the elections cycle, and tools to develop strong networks.
Addressing the group, Deputy Chief of Mission Caitlin Piper said they hoped for more women in more positions.
“This year, 2023, is a pivotal year for women in politics, not just in Eswatini but around the world. Research shows unequivocally societies with women in elected, decision-making positions are more peaceful and more prosperous.
“However, the data also tells us women are still deeply under-represented in government leadership, at less than one of four Cabinet Ministers globally, with men continuing to dominate critical portfolios such as the economy, defence, and energy. But we know good governance requires the equal participation of women in all its processes,” she said.
Earlier this year His Majesty King Mswati III encouraged women to vote for each other during the upcoming elections.
His Majesty was speaking during the Buganu Festival at Hlane Royal Residence after watching the dancing skills displayed by thousands of lutsango from different areas in and from outside the country.
His Majesty said he had heard songs composed by women encouraging people to join the upcoming national elections. His Majesty said he was positive that women would vote for each other this year and no special cases will have to be made to ensure that there is enough women’s representation in Parliament. Indlovukazi also calls on women to stop looking down upon each other. Worth noting is that over 95 000 women have registered for the upcoming elections in the Elections Boundaries Commission (EBC) and they are currently in the lead.
Photo Cred: U.S. Embassy Eswatini
