MASERU
Gender Links Lesotho has called the nation to work together to tackle gender-based violence (GBV) in Lesotho. The organisation made the call during the commemoration of International Women’s Day in Maseru this week.
The event shared preliminary insights from the Gender-Based Violence Indicators Study aimed at understanding the scale and evolving nature of violence in Lesotho. The study is conducted with backing from the European Union and in partnership with several organisations including the International Commission of Jurists, Seinoli Legal Centre, People’s Matrix and Sesotho Media and Development.
Mamolibeli Ngakane, an officer in the Department of Gender, Youth and Social Development, said gender-based violence remains one of the most serious barriers to gender equality and social justice in the country.
“Gender-based violence is not inevitable; it is preventable. The evidence we are generating must move from awareness to action so that women and girls can live free from fear and fully exercise their rights,” Ngakane said.
The study aims to give updated information on the drivers and patterns of gender-based violence and help guide national dialogue and policy responses. According to Gender Links, while progress has been made in addressing gender-based violence, new challenges are prevailing due to social, economic and technological changes.
“Violence against women and girls is a global pandemic that knows no borders, affecting women and girls of all ages, backgrounds and communities,” said Gender Links Lesotho Country Manager, Thapelo Tlakanelo.
The organisation made an emphasis that addressing GBV requires a comprehensive approach that involves governments, civil society, communities and individuals working together to prevent and respond to violence.
“On this International Women’s Day, we call on all stakeholders to join forces to end GBV and promote a culture of respect, equality and justice for all,” Tlakanelo said.
The commemoration of International Women’s Day is an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of women while also spotlighting the hurdles that continue to affect their safety, dignity and rights.
Lesotho has made commitments to address GBV, including the adoption of the SADC Protocol on Gender and Development, which sets targets for countries to achieve gender equality and women’s empowerment.
However, more needs to be done to translate these commitments into action. The Lesotho government, civil society, communities and individuals must work together to prevent and respond to GBV,⅝ and promote a culture of respect, equality and justice for all.
The fight against GBV is a collective responsibility, and every person has a role to play in promoting a culture of respect and equality.
