Lesotho Launches Boiketlong Multipurpose Centre to Strengthen Fight Against Gender-Based Violence

On November 24th, in Maseru, Lesotho took a historic step in combating Gender-Based Violence (GBV) with the official launch of the Boiketlong Multipurpose Centre (MPC). The ceremony, held at the Royal Palace, brought together Their Majesties, King Letsie III and Queen Masenate Seeiso, the Deputy Prime Minister, Justice Nthomeng Majara, senior government officials, heads of diplomatic missions, the UNFPA Regional Director for East and Southern Africa, the UN Resident Coordinator, Dr. Innocent Nuwagira of the World Health Organization, and other UN agency leaders.

The Centre is designed as a safe haven for victims and survivors of GBV, providing protection, support, and empowerment. It symbolizes hope and renewed strength for those affected by violence. Its launch, occurring just before the global 16 Days of Activism Against GBV, underscores Lesotho’s commitment to addressing the issue decisively.

In her keynote address, Queen Masenate Seeiso urged the nation to move beyond passive concern. She stated that the MPC represents a lifeline for survivors, allowing them to rebuild their lives and regain confidence. Her Majesty highlighted the Centre as a promise of safety, compassion, and renewed hope, while acknowledging the contributions of partners and community champions who made the initiative possible.

Deputy Prime Minister, Justice Majara, stressed the urgency of the launch and its alignment with the 16 Days of Activism Against GBV. He highlighted the alarming prevalence of GBV in Lesotho, referencing the 2023/24 Demographic and Health Survey which showed that 41.68% of ever-married women aged 15–49 have experienced intimate partner violence. Majara reaffirmed the government’s commitment to prioritizing the protection of women and children, pursuing justice, and providing support for survivors.

UN Resident Coordinator, ‘M’e Amanda Khozi, described the MPC as a beacon of hope and collective responsibility. She emphasized that the Centre ensures no survivor in Lesotho faces violence alone and transforms compassion into tangible support. Khozi commended the government for integrating the MPC with the national GBV response and Sustainable Development Goals, while recognizing the efforts of civil society, traditional leaders, and community champions who have supported survivors.

The launch of the Boiketlong Multipurpose Centre represents a key milestone in Lesotho’s fight against GBV. It demonstrates how government, the UN, the private sector, and community stakeholders can collaborate effectively to serve humanity. The Centre provides a secure space for survivors to rebuild their lives and return to society with dignity. Through coordinated action, Lesotho is moving toward a future where women and girls can live free from fear and violence.

The Boiketlong MPC sets a precedent for comprehensive survivor support, combining safety, empowerment, and community engagement. Its establishment marks a decisive step in the country’s broader strategy to prevent and respond to gender-based violence.