YVONNE CHAKA CHAKA FOR GBV ‘FIGHT’ IN ESWATINI
MBABANE – February 6 and 7, 2025, will mark the launch of an initiative aimed at addressing gender-based violence (GBV) and its far-reaching consequences on Eswatini’s economy, children and society. The inaugural Hope Rising in Eswatini is co- hosted by SOHO US and Swatini Action Group Against Abuse (SWAGAA) by Saving Orphans through Healthcare and Outreach (SOHO) and will take place at the George Hotel in Manzini. The event seeks to unite community and business leaders in a collective effort to tackle the abuse and trauma affecting vulnerable women and children in the kingdom.
Garnered
The summit has garnered the support of Deputy Prime Minister Thulisile Dladla, who will officially open the event. Known for her steadfast commitment to social welfare, Dladla has been a vocal advocate for initiatives that protect the rights of women and children. Her endorsement adds significant weight to the summit’s objectives and signals government’s recognition of the urgent need to address GBV in Eswatini.
About HOPE RISING and SOHO’s Mission
HOPE Rising is a signature event of SOHO, a faith-based non-profit organisation working to support orphans and vulnerable children (OVCs), particularly those affected by abuse, hunger and poverty. Over the past eight years, SOHO has hosted annual events in the United States, raising awareness of Eswatini’s challenges, generating funds and cultivating partnerships to advance its mission. These gatherings have frequently featured notable figures such as South African Advisor Gail Masondo and members of her celebrity network, helping to amplify the cause’s visibility.
The 2025 HOPE RISING: Game Changers Summit marks the first time the event will be held in Eswatini. The programme is set to include keynote presentations, high-level panel discussions, interactive forums, and inspirational music performances. The aim is to foster dialogue and collaboration while inspiring actionable solutions to the issues plaguing vulnerable populations in the country.
Key speakers and performances
The summit boasts an impressive line-up of speakers and performers who bring diverse expertise and influence to the table. Key participants include:
Yvonne Chaka Chaka, the ‘Princess of Africa and UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador. With decades of advocacy for children’s rights and gender equality, Chaka Chaka’s presence underscores the summit’s focus on empowering women and children. Josina Z. Machel is a renowned human rights defender and daughter of Samora and Graça Machel. Her work in fighting gender-based violence and promoting equality reflects the summit’s core mission.
Gail Masondo is an author and life recovery coach, known for her role as a South African Advisor to SOHO. Her expertise in trauma recovery will provide critical insights into supporting survivors of abuse. Cynthia J. Prime, SOHO’s CEO and Co-Founder, whose leadership has been instrumental in developing initiatives like the Lentsaba Children’s Village and community outreach programmes. Victor Masondo, a celebrated musician and producer, will contribute both creatively and through his advocacy for social change. Nonhlanhla Dlamini, Executive Director of SWAGGA (Swatini Action Group Against Abuse), a leading voice in the fight against gender-based violence in Eswatini.
Gcina and Friends, whose musical performances will add an inspirational element to the event. The pandemic may now be a distant memory for some, but its devastating aftermath continues to be felt in Eswatini. Rising rates of teen pregnancies, orphans and vulnerable children have placed immense strain on families, communities and the nation’s economy. Poverty has deepened as the cost of living soars and resources dwindle, leaving children increasingly at risk of trafficking, abuse and neglect. In response to these challenges, SOHO operates critical programmes to support OVCs.
These include a preschool and feeding programme in Nhlambeni, outreach activities in Marekamp and the organisation’s latest initiative, Lentsaba Children’s Village. Located on a 1 065-acre mountain property, the village will provide safe housing, trauma-informed care, education and vocational training for up to 250 children. An agricultural programme is also being developed to equip children with essential skills and sustain the village’s operations.
The Hope Rising summit represents more than a discussion platform it is a call to action. By bringing together influential leaders, activists, and creatives, the event seeks to inspire collaborative solutions to gender-based violence and its impact on Eswatini’s most vulnerable populations. The summit’s outcomes aim to establish a brighter future for children and women, rooted in empowerment, education and healing. As Eswatini grapples with the long-term effects of poverty, abuse and inequality, initiatives like Hope Rising offer a glimmer of hope. By addressing these pressing issues through collective effort, the kingdom can take significant steps towards a society where every child and woman can thrive in safety and dignity.
Post your comment 





Comments (0 posted):