Her Land. Her Rights

Women Unlimited Commemorates World Environment Day to Combat Desertification and Drought

Women Unlimited Eswatini joined the world in commemoration of the World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought on the 19th of June 2023. This Convention was held at Mavuso Trade and Exhibition Centre under the theme her land her rights. Desertification and Drought Day is observed every year to promote public awareness that land degradation neutrality is achievable.

Desertification and drought are global environmental challenges that have severe consequences for communities, particularly women. Climate change has resulted in irregular rainfall patterns, leading to prolonged droughts and the expansion of arid areas, further exacerbating the challenges faced by rural communities, especially women who depend heavily on agriculture and natural resources for their livelihoods.

Women Unlimited Eswatini has been on the forefront of advocating for women’s rights and empowerment and the theme “Her Land. Her Rights” highlighted the importance of recognizing and protecting women’s land rights as means to combat desertification and drought effectively.

In her remarks Women Unlimited, Executive Director, Vimbai Kapurura, said that “women are less likely to participate in land decision-making because they have less authority over the land they depend on, making them more vulnerable to exploitation and displacement”.

For women to be included in this sector, we need to improve the policy and legal environment for gender equality on land , addressing culture, religion, and customary practices that hinder  women’s realisation of their full potential on land,  enhance capacity and coordination of land institutions and actors on gender mainstreaming through public awareness and communication on women’s land rights, build women’s leadership and participation in land governance as well as strengthening women’s rights in communal and community land, said Vimbai.

The convention showcased innovative solutions and projects initiated by women to combat desertification and drought. Women-Led initiatives, such as afforestation campaigns, water conservation projects and sustainable farming practices, demonstrated the powerful role that women play in finding sustainable solutions to environmental challenges. Women Unlimited encouraged women to stand up for their land rights, raise- their voices in decision making processes, and adopt sustainable land management practices. The theme for the 2023 convention to combat desertification served as a reminder that women are not just victims of environmental challenges but also powerful agents of change. By recognizing and supporting their rights to land and resources, we can build a more equitable and sustainable future for all.