Youth light candle vigil on GBV
MPHO RAMOLULA
MASERU – Hundreds of Basotho youth gathered at Alliance Française de Maseru for the “Khanya, Sunset candle Vigil” – a powerful demonstration against Gender-based Violence (GBV) in Maseru last Friday. Maleah Foundation organized the February 22 event in partnership with 1Billion Rising.
GBV is a pervasive and deeply entrenched problem in many societies, including Lesotho. It encompasses a wide range of harmful acts, including physical, sexual and emotional abuse as well as threats and intimidation directed at individuals based on their gender.
These acts often stem from deeply ingrained societal norms and powerful imbalances, where women and girls are frequently relegated to subordinate roles and subjected to harmful stereotypes.
The consequences of GBV are far-reaching, impacting individuals physical and mental well-being, as well as their ability to participate fully in society.
The lack of access to justice, support services and safe spaces for survivors further exacerbates the problem and perpetuates a cycle of violence.
The Khanya vigil aimed to break this silence and foster a sense of community and empowerment amongst survivors and allies.
Master of ceremonies, Liteboho guided the evening, setting the tone for an event that balanced somber reflections with passionate calls for action.
Speaking at the event, Khotsofalo Shale, a 1Billion Rising ambassador for Maleah Foundation, eloquently articulated the purpose of the gathering.
“1Billion Rising is a global movement dedicated to end violence against women and children,” she declared, emphasizing that “the way we do this is through the power of dance, art and activism.”
She stressed the local theme, “Bacha Pele”, explaining its significance in galvanizing young people, emphasizing the foundations motto, “leave no boy behind”.
This inclusive approach acknowledged the crucial role boys and men play in challenging harmful norms and creating a more equitable society.
Mamello Catherine Lipholo from Alleviate, a youth-focused organization, detailed their multifaceted programmes, including blood donation drives, youth sessions and human rights education, all working to address societal issues impacting their communities.
Mpho Lebesa, co-founding director of Plant One Tree, a youth-led environmental non-profit organization, highlighted the organization’s commitment to restore Lesotho’s natural beauty through tree planting, emphasizing the symbiotic relationship between environmental health and social justice.
The most resonant moment of the evening came from Moleboheng Faso, a GBV survivor from Qacha’s Nek. With raw honesty, she shared her experience of GBV, her voice trembling as she recounted the abuse she suffered. Yet, even within the pain, her words radiated strength and resilience.
She offered advice and support to others who had suffered similar traumas, proving to be a beacon of hope in the face of adversity. Her testimony served as a powerful reminder of the human cost of GBV and the urgency of tackling this crisis.
Manyeli, a social worker and teacher, offered a distressing perspective on violence against children, underscoring the need for protective measures and educational initiatives to safeguard the well-being of Lesotho youth.
The Tse Ntle Litjotjela drama group and the dynamic young change makers from three different schools presented compelling performances, expressing the pain, resilience and hope felt by those affected by GBV.
Through powerful drama and dance, they conveyed the complexities of the issue, challenging the audience to confront its realities and consider their role in creating a better future.
The performances were deeply moving, provoking a wave of emotions that resonated throughout the venue. The collective candle-lighting ceremony provided a potent visual representation of unity and solidarity, transforming the Alliance Française into a space filled with hope, remembrance and resolve.
“To me, it is a true testament that the resilience of young people in dealing with the fight against GBV in Lesotho is alive, it was alive today,” Maleah Foundation’s closing remarks resonated with the audience.
“Young people, I just want to encourage you today and say the future is in your hands. As 1Billion Rising always says, we rise, we resist and we unite.”
Interview
Speaking to Reamohetsoe Matooane…
After the Khanya, Sunset candle Vigil Public Eye’s MPHO RAMOLULA (PE) had a short interview with one of the attendees, REAMOHETSOE MATOOANE (RM), a representative from 1Billion Rising ambassadors.
PE: What are your feelings about today’s event?
RM: As a young person and 1Billion Rising ambassador, I felt deeply honoured to be part of this event. It’s incredibly important to raise awareness about gender-based violence, an issue that affects so many in our communities.
I was also immensely proud to see the energy and leadership of young people driving this initiative from the organizations to the performances and the huge turnout.
PE: What was the most memorable part of this event for you?
RM: Without doubt, it was the GBV survivor’s story. It highlighted the courage it takes to share such deeply personal experiences. It reinforced for me that speaking out is crucial for change, even if it’s terrifying.
At the same time, hearing that story also underscored the deep flaws in our justice system, flaws that fail survivors time and again. That’s something we urgently need to address.
PE: What would you say to the youth of Lesotho following this event?
RM: My message is simple; this country is ours to change. We can’t afford complacency or endless complaints about government failures. We need to actively educate ourselves, use our voices and fight relentlessly until we are heard.
We must be the change we want to see. Young people are not just the leaders of tomorrow; our leadership begins now in the present. We have the power to create a safer and more just Lesotho.
The Khanya Sunset Vigil was far more than just a single event; it was a powerful testament to the enduring spirit of the youth in Lesotho.
It showcased their collective commitment to challenging deeply entrenched societal norms and their determination to build a society free from the shadow of GBV.
The event brought together various organizations, Plant One Tree, Stymo Foundation and Alleviate among them, forging a united front against the pervasive issue.
This collaboration, underscores the importance of collective action, emphasizing that the fight against GBV requires a multi-faceted approach with strong community engagement at its core.
The vigil served as a powerful symbol of hope, highlighting the resilience of survivors and the unwavering commitment of a generation determined to create a more just and equitable future for all Basotho youth.
As the candle flickered in the fading light, they carried with them a message of unwavering hope and the promise of a brighter tomorrow.
