UN and Bushfire Ignite a Call to Action at the Media Launch of Their Partnership

MALKERNS, ESWATINI — On a vibrant Tuesday morning, the grounds of House on Fire were alight with anticipation as partners and community members gathered for the launch of the 2024 UN-Bushfire Partnership. This collaborative initiative promises to channel the fiery spirit of the MTN Bushfire Festival into powerful advocacy and outreach for Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The event, led by UN Resident Coordinator Mr. George Wachira, marked the beginning of a significant collaboration between seven UN agencies (OHCHR, UNDP, UNICEF, UNFPA, IOM, WFP, and UNAIDS) and the Bushfire Festival team. Mr. Wachira emphasized the partnership’s dual purpose: enhancing UN’s visibility and outreach on the SDGs and providing a platform for local and global advocacy. "This festival is not just about music and art—it’s about inspiring action and creating sustainable impacts," said Mr. Wachira.

Each UN agency brought a focus area into the spotlight, demonstrating the multifaceted approach of the partnership:
UNAIDS highlighted their commitment to HIV/AIDS prevention and treatment, promoting comprehensive and inclusive strategies to support affected communities.
IOM addressed the critical issues surrounding human trafficking, with a special focus on protection and support for victims within and beyond Eswatini's borders.
UNFPA took a stand on gender-based violence, advocating for stronger measures and community involvement to protect women and girls.
OHCHR championed the rights and freedoms fundamental to sustainable development, linking the power of music and culture with the pursuit of peace and justice.
WFP discussed the urgency of food security, particularly in the face of climate change and economic challenges, underscoring the need for resilient food systems in Eswatini.
UNDP highlighted strategies for addressing high youth unemployment in Eswatini, focusing on unlocking pathways to employability and entrepreneurship.
UNICEF talked about the critical role of education in fostering climate action, aiming to empower the next generation of environmental stewards through innovative learning initiatives.

The Bring Your Fire Zone (BYFZ) at the festival, sponsored by the UN, will serve as a hub for dialogue and engagement, featuring stalls from UN agencies and partners, and showcasing local and global issues through art, music, and interactive discussions.

As part of the pre-festival activities, a series of outreach dialogues will be hosted across Eswatini’s regions and at House on Fire, focusing on topics from youth employability to climate action, and preparing the stage for the Summit of the Future to be held at the UN headquarters in September.

The festival, scheduled for 31 May to 2 June 2024, is set to be a landmark event, merging entertainment with education and advocacy, reflecting the commitment of the UN and its partners to not only raise awareness but also to drive tangible changes in pursuit of the SDGs.

As Mr. Wachira concluded, "Let's bring our collective fire to the Bushfire Festival and beyond, sparking a global movement towards a sustainable, just, and equitable future."