BY MBONO MDLULI
MBABANE – In an effort to accelerate its efforts to alleviate gender-based violence (GBV), One Billion Rising Eswatini has launched a campaign that is set to be implemented throughout next year.
The launch took place today, December 20, 2024 during a press conference held by the organisation in Manzini. The theme of the campaign says: “Rising for Freedom: Rise Against Patriarchy, End Violence Against All Women and Girls.” During the conference, One Billion Rising Eswatini Director Colani Hlatjwako said over the years, much has changed since the inception of One Billion Rising in Eswatini.
“Significant strides have been made with the introduction of laws aimed at ending gender-based violence, promoting the inclusion of women in parliament, the establishment of women’s rights organisations, and community programmes designed to raise awareness about these critical issues,” Hlatjwako said.
However, despite these advances, Hlatjwako said it often felt as though little has changed. It was for that reason why the organisation felt it should continue intensifying its campaign against GBV. She said there was a belief in the country that women were inferior to men and they, as an organisation, should continue to educate Emaswati about the importance of seeing women as people who were equal to men and as people who could work cooperatively with them for the betterment of Eswatini society.
She said one of the most exciting aspects of the 2025 campaign was that it would be led by youth. “By engaging young people in this critical issue, we empower them to challenge harmful gender norms, influence policy, and raise awareness in their communities. The active involvement of youth in conversations about GBV is vital in breaking the silence and stigma surrounding the issue,” she said.
The director said the involvement of the youth also fostered a culture of accountability, where all individuals, regardless of gender, stood united in the fight for justice. According to the director, when young people are actively engaged, they are more likely to advocate for equality and work toward creating safer, more inclusive spaces for everyone. “This will contribute to a generation that is conscious, compassionate, and determined to end gender-based violence,” she said.
She called upon all men to be part of the campaign. “Men’s involvement is particularly impactful in shifting the attitudes of other men and boys, many of whom feel societal pressure to conform to norms that condone aggression, control, and dominance over women. By speaking out against violence and promoting healthy, respectful relationships, men can inspire others to challenge harmful behaviours and attitudes,” she said.
She also announced new partnerships for the 2025 campaign, in addition to our existing ones. These partnerships include: Summer Camp Sukuma, Eswatini Schools Arts and Culture Association, Sidla Ngaloludzala Cultural Group, and Mbikwakhe Ekasi Stage. “Together, we will harness the creative energy of youth to amplify the call to end gender-based violence and build a society where women and girls live free from violence, poverty, and inequality,” she said. “The 2025 risings will include the Youth Arts Festival Against Violence, a Cultural Artistic Dance Competition, and the Pre-Rising Artistic Event for Youth in Churches.”
