Her Royal Highness Inkhosikati LaMatsebula has called for prayers and collective action to confront violence against women and protect families.
Speaking during the second Annual Women’s Month Thought Leadership Event held at the Royal Villas in Ezulwini yesterday, the Inkhosikati said the fight against gender-based violence (GBV) required more than speeches and commemorative events.
She called on women, men, families, communities and leaders to confront the scourge collectively, while emphasising the importance of prayer in seeking divine intervention against violence.
The call came during an event dedicated to examining the role of women in advancing Eswatini and Southern Africa’s economies. Her Royal Highness’ intervention placed the issue of GBV alongside the broader discussion on women’s leadership, empowerment and their contribution to society.
Her message was particularly significant against the backdrop of continued concern over violence against women in the country.
She urged society not to treat the advancement of women as a contest between men and women, but as a partnership necessary for the wellbeing of families and communities.
In her keynote address, she said men had an important role to play in advancing women’s leadership, including opening doors, challenging discriminatory practices, mentoring women, supporting women’s enterprises and ensuring that women’s voices are heard where decisions are made.
The Inkhosikati argued that stronger relationships between men and women could contribute to stronger families, more innovative businesses, effective institutions and resilient economies.
She further called for a society in which women are respected, supported and given opportunities to participate fully in economic and public life.
Her message also extended to women themselves, urging them to support one another rather than compete destructively.
She encouraged women who had reached positions of influence to make room for others, particularly younger women entering their professions.
“When you reach the table, remember to make space for another woman to sit beside you,” she said in her prepared remarks.
The message was that empowerment must be practical rather than a theme celebrated once a year.
Inkhosikati observed that the fight for women’s advancement, dignity and safety required participation at every level, from the home to the boardroom and from communities to national institutions.
She also drew attention to the importance of the country’s leadership model, describing partnership and complementary leadership as important ingredients for national progress.
The event brought together women leaders, entrepreneurs, professionals, government representatives, business leaders and other stakeholders to reflect on the theme ‘The Role of Women in Growing Southern Africa’s Economies’.
The Inkhosikati said the occasion should not end with applause, but should result in renewed commitment to creating conditions in which women could participate fully, lead confidently and prosper sustainably.
Her call for prayer against GBV added a spiritual dimension to what was otherwise a conversation about women’s economic and leadership power.
The underlying message was clear: a society cannot fully empower women economically while women continue to face violence and insecurity in their homes and communities.
FIVE WOMEN HONOURED FOR BREAKING GROUND
Five women have been recognised for their contribution to the environment and logistics sector as part of the country’s Women’s Month celebrations.
The recognition was announced by Minister of Tourism and Environmental Affairs Jane Mkhonta-Simelane, who was representing Minister of Public Works and Transport Chief Ndlaluhlaza Ndwandwe.
Ndwandwe said the awards were intended to acknowledge the significant role played by women in advancing national development.
The recognised women are:
-
Nomthembi Simelane (Aviation: Air Traffic Engineer, ESWACAA)
-
Simisile Mkhwanazi (Railways: Carriage and Wagon Manager, ESR)
-
Dr Fortunate Shabalala (Roads Transportation: Board Chairperson, Road Safety Council)
-
Nelsiwe Mathebula (Architects, Engineers, Surveyors and Allied Professionals: Head, Administration and Facilities Management Division, African Union Commission)
-
Ncamsile Buthelezi (Public Service: Senior Architect, Ministry of Public Works and Transport)
The ministry said the recognition was intended to inspire decision-makers and encourage women, particularly young women, to venture into specialised sectors where leadership and innovation are vital.
The awards were held under the Women’s Month theme, ‘The Role of Women in Advancing Southern Africa’s Economies’.
The ministry said the awardees represented the many women who contribute their skills, expertise and determination across different industries every day.
The recognition also comes as calls grow for more women to occupy positions in traditionally male-dominated sectors such as engineering, transport, aviation, construction and infrastructure.
The ministry said the women should serve as beacons of excellence, inspiring future generations and strengthening the local development journey.
