BY MFANUFIKILE KHATHWANE
MANZINI- Communities leaders urged take the lead in ending gender-based violence (GBV) and violence against children (VAC), a strong call delivered by Kwaluseni Indvuna Yenkhundhla, Mthunzi Dlamini, who was the guest speaker during the SWAGAA Annual General Meeting held at The George Hotel on November 28, 2025.
He told attendees that the fight against abuse begins at grassroots level, where harmful norms often go unchallenged and where survivors face stigma, silence and fear. He said traditional leaders, churches, workplaces and families carry the responsibility to protect survivors and ensure community structures do not shield perpetrators.
According to Kwaluseni Indvuna Yenkhundla true leadership requires courage, honesty and a willingness to confront practices that place women and children at risk.
He highlighted that chiefdoms remain the first point of contact for many survivors, making it crucial for these structures to provide safe and responsive spaces that encourage reporting and uphold justice. Dlamini added that local leadership has the power to shift attitudes, hold perpetrators accountable and guide communities towards values of respect, dignity and equality.
Responding to his remarks, SWAGAA reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening partnerships with community leaders as part of its national strategy to prevent and respond to GBV and VAC. The organisation noted that the Dlamini message aligns with its community-based approach, which focuses on empowering leaders, engaging families and expanding awareness on issues of violence.
SWAGAA highlighted its continued work in schools, institutions and communities, where programmes centred on survivor support, legal assistance and education have contributed to safer reporting environments and improved access to justice. Members also acknowledged the importance of collaboration with traditional authorities, government ministries, civil society and faith-based groups in strengthening protection systems nationwide.
The meeting concluded with a renewed pledge from both SWAGAA and community representatives to intensify collective efforts in building safer, more inclusive communities across Eswatini. The gathering reaffirmed a national commitment to ensuring that every survivor is heard, supported and protected.
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(Courtesy Pic)
