By Zweli Martin Dlamini

MBABANE: Women in five(5)communities will benefit from MTN Eswatini’s three hundred thousand rands(R300.000.00) sponsorship to One Billion Rising.

The communities identified by One Billion Rising and MTN Foundation include Buhlebuyeza(Madlangemphisi Inkhundla)Mantambe under Shiselweni I Inkhundla, Emhlangeni(LaMgabhi Inkhundla), Ekudzeni under Ludzeludze Constituency and Moneni(Manzini South Inkhundla 

Speaking during the official launch of the project, MTN Foundation Board Chairperson Busisiwe Simelane said as a Foundation, they recognized that they could also play an important role in addressing social issues facing the country.

She said over the years, MTN Foundation, in partnership with the other organizations has made several interventions to ensure that the country achieved the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal on “Reduced Inequalities and Gender equality “

The Board Chairperson said as part of their social programs, they have decided to partner with One Billion Rising campaign to implement this project that seeks to create awareness and eradicate GBV.

“MTN Foundation is saying let us all be informed about strategies of eliminating GBV in our communities. When we are informed and actively working to live in harmony, we can jointly accelerate Eswatini’s development, harness its natural and financial resources to drive economic growth and achieve sustainable development.” said the MTN Foundation Board Chairperson.

On another note, Lorraine Nxumalo, Lubombo MP said the holistic empowerment of women includes empowering them in all sectors; socially, economically and politically. “As a Regional MP and a champion of the One Billion Rising in Eswatini I am in awe with the kind of support that MTN foundation is giving to the 5 communities. Change will come when we continuously empower women and communities to understand the value of promoting women’s rights, gender equality and call to end Gender Based Violence in all sectors. There is a huge gap between Women and men in accessing resources. Women are still left behind,” said the MP.