A national dialogue aimed at confronting the growing crisis of gender-based violence (GBV) in Eswatini is expected to bring together key stakeholders from across society to develop coordinated solutions to one of the country’s most pressing social challenges.
The National Indaba on Addressing Gender-Based Violence, convened by the Royal Eswatini Police Service (REPS),
comes amid increasing concern over the prevalence of violence in homes and communities despite years of intervention efforts. 
According to REPS, gender-based violence continues to affect individuals across all sectors of society, raising concerns about the effectiveness of existing prevention and response mechanisms.
The gathering, scheduled for June 17-18 at the Luke Commission Auditorium, will be held under the theme: “Safer Communities: A Collective Response to Eliminate GBV in Eswatini.”
Police say the event is intended to serve as a structured national platform for critical reflection, evidence-based dialogue and coordinated multi-sectoral action.
The initiative follows concerns raised by His Majesty King Mswati III during the 2026 Speech from the Throne,
in which he expressed alarm over the increasing incidence of violence and called on all sectors of society to work together to restore dignity,
protect vulnerable citizens and strengthen the country’s moral and social fabric.
REPS noted that while institutional frameworks and national interventions have been established over the years, gender-based violence remains a significant challenge requiring renewed commitment and collective action.
The indaba is expected to examine systemic gaps in prevention and response systems while exploring ways to strengthen integrated, survivor-centred approaches to protection, service delivery and community engagement.
The Police force asserted that they believe the discussions will help identify practical strategies for improving coordination among government institutions,
law enforcement agencies, civil society organisations, traditional leaders, faith-based groups and other stakeholders involved in combating violence.
Particular attention is expected to be given to strengthening accountability mechanisms,
improving support services for survivors and enhancing public awareness campaigns aimed at changing harmful attitudes and behaviours that contribute to violence.
The conference will also focus on the role of communities in preventing violence before it occurs,
recognising that sustainable solutions require the active participation of families, community leaders and ordinary citizens.
