Maseru, Lesotho – The Boiketlong Multipurpose Centre was officially launched on 24 November in Maseru to provide safety, support, and rehabilitation for victims and survivors of gender-based violence. The inauguration took place at the Royal Palace.
King Letsie III and Queen Masenate Seeiso attended the event alongside the WHO Representative to Lesotho, Dr Innocent Nuwagira, 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, and other UN agency leaders.
Queen Masenate Seeiso urged communities to tackle the root causes of violence and challenge behaviours that perpetuate abuse against women and girls. She described the centre as a lifeline where survivors can rebuild their lives and return to society with renewed strength and confidence. She also thanked all partners and community champions who helped make the initiative possible.
Deputy Prime Minister Majara said the launch coincides with the global 16 Days of Activism Against GBV and demonstrates the government’s decisive action. Citing the 2023/24 Demographic and Health Survey, he noted that 41.68% of ever-married women aged 15–49 have experienced intimate partner violence, describing GBV in Lesotho as having reached pandemic levels. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to protect women and children, pursue justice, and support survivors.
UN Resident Coordinator ‘M’e Amanda Khozi called the centre a beacon of hope and collective responsibility, transforming compassion into service and hope into action. She praised the government for aligning the centre with the national GBV response and the Sustainable Development Goals, while acknowledging civil society, traditional leaders, and community champions for their dedication to supporting survivors.
The Boiketlong Multipurpose Centre provides a safe space for survivors to recover and reintegrate into society. It demonstrates how government, UN agencies, the private sector, and communities can work together to combat gender-based violence and assist those affected.
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