The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) Representative to Lesotho, Mr John Kennedy Mosoti, held a strategic meeting with the Commissioner of Police (COMLPOL), Mr Borotho Matsoso, in Maseru to discuss strengthening the national response to gender-based violence (GBV).
During the meeting, Mr Mosoti outlined key priority areas for collaboration between UNFPA and the Lesotho Mounted Police Service. These include scaling up shelters for survivors, strengthening data collection and management systems, building the capacity of officers within the Child and Gender Protection Unit (CGPU), and improving survivor support and treatment services.
He emphasised the importance of strengthening survivor-centred reporting mechanisms, noting that many survivors still face challenges when seeking help.
“It is important that survivors are supported in a way that respects their dignity and safety. We must continue working towards systems that allow survivors to report gender-based violence safely and access support services without fear or barriers,” he said.
Commissioner Matsoso underscored the importance of reporting cases of gender-based violence and encouraged communities to actively participate in prevention efforts.
“Gender-based violence is a societal problem. We must educate families and communities. People must also be brave enough to demand the services they deserve. If you are not satisfied with the service you receive, ask to see the Officer Commanding the police station,” he said.
Also present at the meeting was the Executive Director of Women and Law in Southern Africa (WLSA), Ms Limpho Mokhochane, who stressed the importance of strengthening partnerships in the fight against gender-based violence.
UNFPA reaffirmed its commitment to continue working with government institutions, civil society organisations and communities to strengthen prevention, protection and support services for survivors of gender-based violence in Lesotho.