Eswatini joins the rest of the world to launch the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence

With a call for unity and decisive action, Eswatini marked the national launch of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence (GBV) at the UN House in Mbabane. The annual campaign, running from 25 November (International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women) to 10 December (Human Rights Day), brings global attention to the fight against violence targeting women and girls.

This year’s theme, “Unite! Invest to Prevent Violence Against Women and Girls,” urges collective action and meaningful investments to combat GBV, highlighting the urgency of addressing the systemic challenges that perpetuate this crisis. The event underscored the power of partnerships and the importance of translating awareness into action.

The Acting Deputy Prime Minister, Hon. Jane Mkhonta-Simelane emphasized the need for societal transformation, reflecting on recent tragic cases of GBV reported in the media. She called on all Emaswati to “unite against gender-based violence” and commit to making Eswatini a safe space for women and girls.

UN Resident Coordinator, Mr. George Wachira reiterated the UN’s support in addressing GBV. He praised the government’s commitment to tackling the issue through initiatives like the Nkwe Programme of Action and the National Gender Policy and Strategy (2023-2027). “Let us unite, invest, and act until this fight is won,” he urged.

The campaign launch called for a whole-of-society approach to end GBV. Communities were urged to challenge harmful cultural norms, such as tibi tendlu, which perpetuates the idea that domestic violence is a private matter. Speakers called for stronger prevention strategies, survivor support systems, and accountability mechanisms for perpetrators.

While notable progress has been achieved through coordinated national policies, persistent challenges such as climate change, inflation, and deeply entrenched societal norms continue to exacerbate GBV. Leaders at the event reaffirmed their commitment to sustained action beyond the 16 days of the campaign.

The 16 Days of Activism serves as a reminder that violence against women and girls is not inevitable—it is preventable. The campaign will feature community dialogues, educational workshops, and advocacy initiatives designed to engage all sectors of society in creating safer environments for women and girls.

The Acting Deputy Prime Minister closed with a rallying call: “Together, let us end gender-based violence. Let us make Eswatini a safe space for all women and girls.”

To conclude the launch, Wachira delivered a poignant poem, drawing parallels between Eswatini’s fight against GBV and its leadership in combating HIV/AIDS. His words inspired hope and called for unity, action, and resilience in the face of challenges.

The campaign will continue with events across the country, culminating on 10 December 2024. Citizens, civil society, and development partners are encouraged to participate and amplify the message that violence against women and girls is a violation of human rights and an obstacle to development.