By Thokozani Mazibuko
The community of Ezulwini is left reeling after the murder of an 18-year-old girl, revealing the stark realities of gender-based violence (GBV) in Eswatini.
The tragic event serves as a grim backdrop to the ongoing 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence campaign, which runs from November 25 to December 10 annually.
According to Chief Police Information and Communication Officer, Senior Superintendent Phindile Vilakati, a 31-year-old man was arrested on December 3 for the murder of the young woman, whose life was brutally cut short after a violent confrontation.
On November 30, at approximately 5:00 AM, the victim was found lying dead on the road near Logoba, suffering from a stab wound to the chest.
Impeccable sources revealed to Eswatini Daily News that the suspect had purchased alcohol and food for the girl the entire night at a local shebeen in Mbhuleni.
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However, tensions escalated when the girl decided to leave with another man. In a fit of rage, the suspect allegedly pursued them, first attacking the suitor before turning on the victim, whose body was later discovered by police.
This tragedy is a stark reminder of the pervasive nature of GBV in our society, an issue that continues to affect countless women and girls across the nation.
The activist campaign, themed “Orange the World: End Violence Against Women Now,” seeks to raise awareness, mobilize communities, and promote action to combat the normalization of violence against women.
Considering this incident, activists and community leaders are once again urging Eswatini’s government and civil society organizations to take a more proactive stance against GBV.
“We need comprehensive strategies to educate our communities about the detrimental effects of violence and to support victims in seeking justice and healing,” states Lindiwe Dlamini, a prominent GBV activist.
The 16 Days of Activism not only seeks to honor the memory of victims but also to foster dialogue around the systemic issues that perpetuate gender inequality and violence.
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This year’s campaign encourages individuals to reflect on their roles in combating GBV and advocating for a safer environment for women and girls.
Community organizations throughout the country are hosting workshops, discussions, and awareness campaigns to engage the public and emphasize that violence against women can no longer be tolerated.
