Africa-Press – Eswatini. The Women’s Parliamentary Caucus came together to accelerate systematic change for gender equality and biodiversity conservation on December 5, 2025 at Hilton Garden Inn, Mbabane.
The event was organized by the Ministry of Tourism and Environment Affairs in partnership with the Eswatini National Trust Commission.
Speaking during the event the Minister of Tourism and Environment Affairs, Hon. Jane Mkhonta-Simelane, warmly welcomed participants, describing the session as “not only historic – it is transformative. It signals our collective recognition that the future of our nation, and indeed our planet, depends on how we integrate gender equality into the stewardship of biodiversity.”
She reminded the audience of the vital role biodiversity plays in everyday life: “Our biodiversity is the living fabric of our nation. It sustains our food systems, protects our waters, and anchors our cultural identity. Yet, it is under threat from climate change, unsustainable practices, and inequitable governance.”
The discussions formed part of the National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan and will contribute to drafting Eswatini’s Gender Plan of Action for the Biodiversity Sector.
The Minister stressed, “This plan will ensure that gender equity is not treated as an add-on, but as a central pillar of biodiversity governance. Women, youth, and rural households must have a stronger voice in shaping policies that affect their lives.”
Senate President Lindiwe Gwebu-Dlamini praised the Ministry’s work, saying, “Women, especially in our communities, are custodians of traditional knowledge and frontline defenders of biodiversity. They are farmers, healers, educators, and leaders whose voices must shape our policies. This Caucus pledges its support to advance the biodiversity programme for Eswatini.”
She also acknowledged the Ministry’s efforts in translating international commitments into national action: “We have taken note of the Ministry’s desire to develop a National Gender Plan of Action. Information is power, and we trust that this Forum will richly contribute to the exercise.”
Minister Hon. Jane Mkhonta-Simelane concluded with a strong call for collaboration: “We stand ready to work hand-in-hand with the Women’s Parliamentary Caucus, civil society, and communities to ensure this Gender Plan becomes a transformative instrument, accelerating systematic change and strengthening our collective impact.”
The event left participants inspired and united in the shared mission of building a future where gender equality and biodiversity conservation go hand in hand, shaping policies that touch lives and protect the environment for generations to come.
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