UN Women Mozambique joins government commemoration of 16 days of activism

Centered on the global theme "UNiTE! Invest to prevent violence against women and girls", the official launch of the 16 Days of Activism to End Violence against Women and Girls took place on November 25 in Maputo.

The 16 Days of Activism campaign is celebrated every year around the world as a call to all civil society organizations, academics, the private sector and government institutions to step up and support the different strategies to prevent and stop violence.

“Let's All Prevent Violence Against Women and Girls" was the motto adopted by the Mozambican government, in a context where more efforts, such as the establishment of laws and policies are being made to eradicate gender-based violence. According to data from the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Action, in the first half of 2023, the national services for victims of violence registered 9,621 cases compared to 10,965 in 2022, a decrease of 1,344 cases compared to the same period in 2023.

During the launch of the campaign, the Minister of Gender, Children and Social Action, Dr. Nyeleti Brooke Mondlane, emphasized why it is important to invest in the prevention of Gender-Based Violence, involving communities to support the efforts of gender equality actors.

For the Secretary of State for Maputo City, Eng. Vicente Joaquim, it is important to call everyone to reflect on the evils that hinder the integral and harmonious development of society.

The United Nations Resident Coordinator in Mozambique, Dr. Catherine Sozi, in her speech expressed her solidarity with this year's theme, advocating for more investment, leadership, and action by the Mozambican people.

The campaign ended on December 10 and during the 16 days different awareness-raising activities were carried out with the support of UN Women Mozambique, such as Lectures, Workshops, Participation in Media Programs, social media campaigns, peaceful marches, cultural and artistic activities, among others.