by Ncaba Ntshakala
The fight against gender-based violence (GBV) in Eswatini has received a significant boost through a donation of E160,000 worth of equipment and resources from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID).
The handover ceremony took place at the Mbabane Government Hospital, home to one of the One Stop Centres established to support survivors of abuse.
The event brought together key stakeholders, including the Principal Secretary at the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs Dorcas Dlamini, SWAGAA Executive Director Nonhlanhla Dlamini,
RELATED: 85% of GBV cases happening in homesteads, reports SWAGAA
Young Heroes Director Khulekani Magongo, USAID representative Dobbie Dlamini, and Mbabane Government Hospital Matron Sandra Khumalo.
The donation, facilitated through the collaborative efforts of USAID, SWAGAA, and Young Heroes, includes laptops for data capturing, toys, crayons, and other resources tailored to assist GBV survivors, especially children.
Nonhlanhla Dlamini of SWAGAA expressed her gratitude to USAID for the support, highlighting the transformative potential of the donation for the One Stop Centres.
“We as an organization are here in support of USAID, and we appreciate the people of America through Young Heroes,” Dlamini said.
She elaborated on the variety of items provided, emphasizing their significance in aiding survivors, particularly children who have experienced sexual abuse.
“We know that children who have been sexually assaulted, in particular, have difficulties speaking up. When they get the toys, they sort of melt down and are able to speak.
We hope these items will go a long way in helping the One Stop Centre.”
The toys, she explained, serve as therapeutic tools, enabling children to express themselves in safe and supportive environments.
RELATED: GBV: SADC grappling with ending scourge
Some toys will be taken home by the children, while others will remain at the centres for shared use.
Dlamini also shared that the donation will extend beyond Mbabane, benefiting other centres in Manzini, Shiselweni, and Lubombo.
The laptops provided will play a crucial role in improving data management and ensuring the efficient delivery of services.
In her closing remarks, Dlamini d the importance of partnerships in addressing GBV, expressing hope that these contributions will lead to tangible improvements in the lives of survivors.
