GBV-Inclusive Disability Programming – Strengthening Regional CBOs Resilience

To create safer and more inclusive communities in Eswatini where vulnerable women, youth, and persons with disabilities are protected from Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and empowered to thrive.

100 beneficiaries comprising of women, men, youth and people with disabilities

The initiative aligns with Hlanganisa’s mission to strengthen social accountability and uphold human rights in pursuit of social justice for all. Focusing on both GBV programming and disability inclusion, the project aims to design and test innovative interventions that address the root causes of GBV; such as economic disempowerment, discrimination, and the lack of understanding, accessibility, and accommodation for women, youth, and persons living with disabilities. The project will intentionally center the experiences and needs of people with disabilities, to ensure that this often-marginalized population is fully included in efforts to prevent GBV and build safer, more inclusive communities where all individuals can thrive.The project will strengthen staff capacity to support people with disabilities, conduct community sensitization trainings on GBV affecting persons with disabilities, provide skills and business development training for women and youth, and establish safe community spaces with improved reporting mechanisms.

As the project progresses, community members, local leaders, and service providers are expected to gain a deeper understanding of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and the importance of disability inclusion. Women, youth, and persons with disabilities will acquire new skills and economic opportunities through targeted training and mentorship, empowering them to participate more fully in community life. At the same time, Women Unlimited Eswatini staff and local partners will strengthen their capacity to support and advocate for individuals affected by GBV. Safe community spaces with accessible reporting mechanisms will be established, creating environments where vulnerable groups feel protected and supported.

Over time, these efforts will foster safer and more inclusive communities in Kwaluseni and Mbikwakhe. Vulnerable women, youth, and persons with disabilities will experience greater protection from GBV and increased opportunities to engage in community life. Through sustained collaboration between government offices, grassroots organizations, and communities, social change will be reinforced, and knowledge and skills shared by empowered individuals will ripple outward, promoting resilience, accountability, and lasting inclusion across the region.