Africa-Press – Eswatini. The Swaziland National Association of Teachers (SNAT), together with Mbabane Swallows FC, led a massive march against Gender-Based Violence (GBV) in Manzini on 5 December 2025.
Drawing scores of teachers, students, football fans, and community members, the march moved from the Manzini Post Office as participants took to the streets to demand urgent action, justice for survivors, and an end to the escalating violence, calling for immediate national measures to address the rising cases of violence in Eswatini.
Marchers carried strong placards, chanting for accountability and protection for survivors, with messages including “SNAT Says No to GBV” and “Declare GBV a National Disaster,” and stated that the march was a direct response to the increasing violence affecting learners and families, emphasizing that “silence is no longer an option.”
SNAT President Mbongwa Dlamini strongly addressed the root causes of violence, condemning relationships based on money rather than genuine affection.
“Relationships must not be about material things but love,” Dlamini said. “If you love a person, love him or her as she is, not because he or she has money.”
Dlamini also criticized the abuse occurring in relationships where older women date younger men, whom he referred to as “Ben 10s.” He stated that these women frequently abuse the young men.
Mbabane Swallows FC joined the demonstration, using their public platform to reinforce the message that GBV is unacceptable in sports and society. The club stated, “Football must lead by example.”
The march is part of the global 16 Days of Activism Against GBV, focusing on the theme “UNITE! Invest to Prevent Violence Against Women and Girls.” Organizers also highlighted the growing threat of digital violence, including online harassment and cyberbullying.
Organizers called for continuous commitment from all sectors, government, traditional authorities, and the private sector, to ensure the fight against GBV continues year-round, beyond the 16-day campaign.
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