First Lady advocates for active involvement in combating gender-based violence in Mozambique

The First Lady of the Republic, Gueta Chapo, has called for the proactive involvement of men, women, families, and institutions in combating gender-based violence. She emphasised the importance of fostering family dialogue and educating children to prevent domestic violence and femicide in Mozambique.

Her remarks came on Monday during a meeting at her office with a delegation from Rádio Moçambique (RM), which was there to formally announce her selection as the patron of the 38th edition of NGOMA Moçambique 2026, set to take place in Nampula Province.

Chapo stated that the NGOMA festival not only promotes national music but also serves as a platform to celebrate Mozambique’s cultural identity and diversity. She asserted that this year’s edition should also heighten awareness of domestic violence against women.

“This edition firmly embraces the thematic award dedicated to combating domestic violence against women,” she remarked, noting that the event provides an opportunity to amplify voices and commitments surrounding this issue.

Expressing concern about the rise in gender-based violence and femicide cases, the First Lady insisted that prevention requires the engagement of men, especially in educating children from an early age to foster relationships built on respect and equality.

“We need to sit down with men; we must engage in more dialogue,” she stated, highlighting that children often mimic violent behaviours observed within their families and social environments.

Chapo further urged both men and women to favour dialogue in conflict resolution, observing that “hitting and apologising does not heal the wounds we cause,” and that “killing and apologising cannot bring back the life of someone who has died.”

In terms of victim protection, she announced forthcoming initiatives to build shelter homes dedicated to the protection of women and children in dangerous situations. She expressed gratitude to the government of Nampula Province and the municipal council for providing a space for one of these facilities.

The First Lady also appealed for contributions from media organisations, businesses, and citizens towards the construction of shelter homes in various districts and communities, advocating that the proximity of these shelters to victims’ residences could enhance access to protection and help prevent future incidents of violence.