Africa-Press – Lesotho. In another tour aimed to commemorate the 16 Days of Activism against Gender Based Violence (GBV), BAM Group Foundation (BGF) together with its partners sensitized Phahameng community on matters pertaining to inheritance, child
marriage, GBV and femicide last Wednesday. Speaking at the event, BGF Manager Reitumetse Phooko indicated that the purpose of the gathering was to alert the community about issues that have
separated communities and have become a norm in most rural communities, and to address the most neglected human rights violations to mark the 16 Days of activism
against GBV. While explaining the campaign, Gender Links Country Manager ‘Manteboheleng Mabetha said 16 Days of Activism against GBV is an annual International
campaign that kicks off on 25 November, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women and runs until 10 December, Human Rights Day.
She clarified that the campaign is a call for the prevention and elimination of violence against women and girls. Mabetha further explained that this year’s International theme is; ‘Orange the World, End Violence against Women
now’ while the National theme is; Counter Domestic Violence and enhance family well-being “How do you prepare for inheritance?” She also explained that other commemorated days within 16 Days of
Activism against GBV are 1st December: World Aids Day and 3rd December: International Day of Persons with Disabilities. From She-Hive Association ‘Mampai Lebeko opined that men should
respect women and girls and to avoid violating them in all forms. She listed and explained types of abuse which include physical, emotional, financial and
sexual abuse among others. On the issue of Inheritance, Lebeko advised that those involved should document their properties and assign eligible heirs, involve the
witnesses, Chiefs and law enforcement agencies. She said everyone should know their inheritance rights. Moreover, on child marriages, Catholic Commission for Justice and
Peace (CCJP) Representative ‘Makhotso Kholoanyane said child marriage refers to any formal marriage or informal union between a child under the age of 18 and an
adult or another child. She urged for an ultimate end to child marriages, adding that children have a right to education, to be children, enjoy their time growing up and being playful.
Kholoanyane said child marriage robs girls of their childhood and threatens their lives and health. “Because child marriage impacts a girl’s health, future
and family, it imposes substantial economic costs at the national level too with major implications for development and prosperity,” she highlighted. On behalf of villagers ‘Malesala Khoiti said they learned a lot
about inheritance, GBV and child marriage. She promised that they will report once they observe violation of human rights. Khoiti expressed gratitude to the organizers for bringing such important information to their area.
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