BY SIBUSISEKILE NDLANGAMANDLA
MASHOBENI – Children in northern Hhohho are being empowered with practical knowledge to recognise and resist gangsterism before it takes hold of their lives, as His Majesty’s Correctional Services (HMCS) steps up crime-prevention education among young people.
Correctional officers took their message directly to children during the Northern Hhohho Zone Children’s Ministry Zonal Children’s Rally held at Mashobeni Methodist Church, where they spoke openly about gangsterism, crime, discipline, responsible decision-making and the harsh realities of imprisonment.
Rather than waiting for young people to encounter the criminal justice system later in life, HMCS used the rally as an opportunity to reach them early and encourage choices that could protect their futures.
Correctional Officer Luvuyo Dlamini told the children that gangs could sometimes appear attractive because they created an illusion of power, belonging and respect.
However, he warned that what may initially look like acceptance or status could eventually expose young people to violence, criminal activity and consequences capable of changing the direction of their lives.
Dlamini also stressed that protecting children from gangsterism should not be left to young people alone.
He encouraged parents and guardians to remain actively involved in their children’s lives by knowing where they spend their time, who they associate with and being alert to noticeable changes in behaviour.
The message was reinforced by Assistant Chief Officer Banele Mohale, who gave the children a glimpse into what life can become when crime results in incarceration.
Mohale explained that imprisonment was not simply about being confined behind bars. It could mean losing personal freedom, becoming separated from loved ones, facing social stigma and damaging relationships with family and members of the community.
Even after serving a sentence, he explained, former offenders could still face difficulties as they tried to rebuild their lives and reintegrate into society.
The officers encouraged the children to understand that crime rarely affects only the person who commits an offence. The consequences can extend to parents, siblings, relatives and entire communities.
Their message was simple but powerful: decisions made while young can have lasting consequences, making discipline, positive friendships and responsible choices important foundations for a better future.
The rally formed part of efforts by the Northern Hhohho Zone Children’s Ministry to nurture children morally, spiritually and socially while providing a safe environment where they could openly learn about challenges affecting young people and their communities.
The partnership with HMCS added a practical crime-prevention dimension to the gathering, allowing children to hear directly from officers who understand the consequences of criminal behaviour and incarceration.
Youth Event Coordinator Bongani Mdluli, speaking on behalf of the church, thanked HMCS for accepting the invitation and taking time to guide the children.
“Your efforts to equip children with knowledge and courage to avoid destructive paths and make responsible decisions will contribute positively to their communities. May God bless you for helping to create hope, growth and a brighter future for these children,” said Mdluli.
The Northern Hhohho Zone Children’s Ministry intends to continue holding similar rallies, reaching more young people in safe and supportive environments while promoting discipline, positive behaviour and community responsibility.
For the children who attended the Mashobeni gathering, the message went beyond simply warning them about crime. It was also an encouragement that their future remains in their hands — and that choosing discipline, education, positive relationships and responsible behaviour can open the door to a more promising life.
