BY PHUMELELE GAMEDZE
EZULWINI— For countless women and girls whose lives have been affected by violence, Eswatini’s latest move towards a continental protection framework represents more than policy change; it signals a renewed national commitment to turning fear into safety and vulnerability into hope.
The Kingdom of Eswatini is moving closer to ratifying the African Union Convention on Ending Violence Against Women and Girls, a step expected to strengthen efforts aimed at preventing abuse, supporting survivors and ensuring greater accountability for perpetrators.
The national consultations brought together key decision makers, including government leaders, parliamentarians, development partners and gender advocates, to discuss how the Convention can become a powerful tool in protecting women and girls across the country.
Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Senator Pholile Shakantu said the urgency of the matter is reflected in the painful stories emerging from communities, where families continue to experience the devastating impact of violence against women and girls.
She said every reported case represents a life affected and a reminder that stronger action is needed to ensure that women and girls can live freely without fear.
Shakantu described the Convention as a commitment to future generations, saying it carries a message that women’s dignity, safety and voices are valued and must be protected.
The Minister further noted that women continue to play a vital role in Eswatini’s development, contributing in areas such as leadership, diplomacy, economic growth and community development.
Deputy Prime Minister Senator Thulisile Dladla said the Convention provides an opportunity for Eswatini to strengthen the systems already in place to respond to gender-based violence.
She highlighted that the country has made progress through the establishment of a GBV coordination mechanism, implementation of the national strategy on ending violence and partnerships that support survivor-focused programmes.
Dladla emphasised that ending violence requires everyone to take responsibility, including families, communities, traditional leaders, faith based organisations, young people and the private sector.
The Convention, adopted by the African Union in 2025, provides a continental framework focused on preventing violence, protecting survivors and improving institutional responses.
As Eswatini considers ratification, stakeholders believe the move will reinforce the country’s commitment to building a society where every woman and girl is respected, protected and given the opportunity to reach her full potential.
The consultations mark another step in the country’s journey from responding to the pain of violence towards creating lasting protection for generations to come.
#EswatiniAgainstGBV #ProtectWomenAndGirls #EndingViolenceTogether #WomenSafetyMatters
(Courtesy Pic)
