Mozambique: Mural Painting Marks the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence

The global 16 Days of Activism Campaign to End Violence Against Women and Girls is a key moment to reaffirm the joint commitment of the European Union, the Government of Mozambique and a wide range of partners to prevent and respond to gender-based violence.

As part of this campaign, a community event took place in Maputo at Josina Machel Secondary School, combining awareness-raising on gender-based violence with artistic expression through the collective painting of a mural.

The activity brought together representatives from the Ministry of Labour, Gender and Social Affairs, municipal authorities, students, youth activists and volunteers, artists, and members of the diplomatic corps. EU Ambassador Antonino Maggiore took part in the event and reaffirmed the European Union's commitment to working jointly for the protection of human rights and for the prevention and elimination of all forms of violence, in Mozambique and beyond.

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The occasion reinforced the message that gender-based violence is a challenge that affects communities around the world and requires strong, coordinated and sustained responses.

The mural, which was designed in cooperation with partners including Plan International, the Center for Democracy and Development, and the Embassy of Finland, and painted collectively, symbolizes the call for a future in which girls and women can live free from violence and discrimination. Through art and active youth involvement, the initiative highlighted the essential role of community engagement in promoting attitudes and behaviors that uphold dignity and human rights for all.

This activity forms part of the "Sou Jovem" project, funded by the European Union, which aims to strengthen youth empowerment in democratic processes in Mozambique, by developing young people's awareness of human rights, gender equality and social inclusion, and by enhancing the role of youth organizations.

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As underlined by Ambassador Maggiore, the European Union will continue working side by side with the Government and partner organizations to support public policies, prevention initiatives, protection of victims and survivors, and actions that amplify the voices of women and girls.

The 16 Days of Activism, which conclude with Human Rights Day, serve as a reminder that ending gender-based violence requires continuous effort, courage, adequate resources and collaboration across all sectors of society.