Maseru ____ Vodacom Lesotho’s Women Network Forum (WNF) held a candle lighting ceremony to remember victims of gender-based violence (GBV) and affirm support to survivors.

The ceremony took place on Wednesday at Makoanyane Square and sought to unite various stakeholders in a concerted effort to combat the pervasive problem of GBV, raising awareness and encouraging survivors to speak up.

In her remarks, the Chairperson of the Women Network Forum Ms. Lisemelo Ramafikeng emphasised the need for collective action against gender-based violence saying that all the relevant stakeholders must work together to create a world where everyone can live free from fear and violence.

She stated that the lighting of the candles should be a remembrance of the victims and survivors of GBV, honour their strength, resilience and pledge to take action, speak up and support one another in the fight against this injustice.

Additionally, Vodacom Lesotho’s Finance Director Mrs. ‘Mamoorosi Raditapole further reiterated this commitment stating that the company stands firmly and unequivocally against gender-based violence in all its insidious forms.

She mentioned that as a responsible corporate entity, they understand the urgency of addressing this systemic problem stating that through the Vodacom Women Network Forum and the Vodacom Lesotho Foundation, they are  committed to fostering gender equality and empowering women and girls, offering invaluable support to GBV survivors, amplifying their voices and creating a safe and inclusive space where women and girls can thrive and succeed.

While conveying his remarks, the Minister of Gender, Youth and Social Development, Mr. Pitso Lesaoana highlighted the government’s dedication to addressing GBV stating that collaboration between government, private sector and civil society is crucial in the fight against gender-based violence.

He echoed that there is a need to work together to ensure that survivors receive the support they need and that perpetrators are held accountable.

This event was also graced with the presence of Ms. Amanda Khozi Mukwashi who is the UN Resident Coordinator, Mr. Innocent Modisaotsile who is the UNFPA Lesotho’s Country Representative and members of Vodacom Lesotho Management and Staff, along with representatives from partner NGOs and security agencies.

The candle lighting ceremony not only honoured the memories of those lost to GBV but also served as a powerful platform to show support for survivors and challenge the societal norms that fuel violence against women and girls.

This event is part of Vodacom’s ongoing efforts to raise awareness and drive meaningful change concerning gender-based violence in Lesotho.