PHESHEYA IAN KUNENE
MBABANE – At least 19 young Gender-based survivors had something to smile about at the weekend as the European Union in Eswatini celebrated their graduation ceremony.
Following a difficult healing journey, the survivors have risen above their situation, reclaimed their lives, and were celebrated by the EU for their bravery and determination during an event at the Haven of Hope shelter.
The EU proudly supported the ‘Hlonipheka’, a thriving dignity program. The visit from the EU also doubled as an opportunity for the organisation to see the positive and encouraging results in the first months of the programme’s implementation. The NGO said the women’s graduation meant the beginning of a brand-new life for them.
The event occurred last Friday (November 29), and the EU participated in the two important milestones at the shelter, in the presence of a representative from the Deputy Prime Minister’s Office.
In a statement shared on the EU’s social media platforms, the NGO mentioned that the 19 young survivors who graduated have attended a series of transformative training sessions, focusing on technical, entrepreneurial, and personal development skills. The women were urged to maintain their learned skills and were encouraged to support other women in the programme.
“This was an important moment in their lives and future, and the EU was happy to celebrate these girls’ strength and courage. This event was even more meaningful during the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence,” reads part of the statement.
Moreover, the day also marked the official inauguration of a new borehole at the shelter.
The borehole provides clean water for hygiene and helps care for the shelter’s vegetable garden. The EU takes this opportunity to thank Likusasa Letfu, Haven of Hope and UNFPA Eswatini for their respective roles in the programme.
