by Ncaba Ntshakala
The Violence Against Children and Youth Survey 2022 (VACS 2022) revealed a statistically significant decline in all forms of childhood sexual violence among females between 2007 and 2022.
This positive trend was shared during a presentation of the survey’s findings before Deputy Prime Minister Thulisile Dladla.
The study was conducted in collaboration between the Deputy Prime Minister’s Office (DPMO) and UNICEF Swaziland, and it highlights the persistent challenges Eswatini faces in combating violence against children despite the progress made in reducing sexual violence among girls.
Sibongile Dlamini, who is the Senior Children’s Coordination Officer at the DPMO, presented the key findings of the report, which surveyed children aged 13 to 24.
RELATED: UNFPA urges collective effort to combat gender-based violence
Dlamini emphasized that both male and female children continue to experience violence and abuse.
The survey results indicated that boys were more likely to experience lifetime physical violence compared to girls. Peer violence, in particular, was found to be over four times higher among males than females, which expresses the prevalence of aggressive interactions among male youths.
The Deputy Prime Minister Thulisile Dladla expressed her gratitude for the comprehensive report, stating that the findings were both alarming and enlightening.
“This study addresses an issue that affects millions of children worldwide, and Eswatini has not been spared,” she remarked.
“The scourge of violence manifests in various forms, including physical, emotional, and sexual abuse, as well as neglect.”
Dladla pointed out that the issue is not confined to any specific culture, socio-economic status, or geography, and that the consequences of violence are severe, both for the victims and society as a whole.
RELATED: World leaders condemn shooting at Trump rally, denounce political violence
“The impact of violence against children is profound and long-lasting. Victims may suffer from severe injuries or even death due to homicide as perpetrators attempt to remove the evidence,” she warned.
The DPM emphasized the psychological and developmental consequences that victims of violence face, noting that exposure to violence can lead to lifelong mental health issues such as anxiety and depression.
Victims are also at greater risk of educational and vocational setbacks, which can perpetuate cycles of poverty and limit future opportunities.
Beyond the personal toll, Dladla highlighted the broader societal impact, including the possibility of children becoming perpetrators or victims themselves later in life.
“Children who witness domestic violence are at an increased risk of perpetuating the cycle of violence,” she said.
She called for a multi-level approach to prevent violence against children, addressing factors from family dynamics to societal norms.
In her closing remarks, the Deputy Prime Minister urged collective action to tackle the issue:
“We must work collectively as government, communities, and families to implement effective strategies that will prevent this problem from continuing its devastating impact on future generations.”