BY GCWALISILE MHLABANE
MATSAPHA – His Majesty’s Correctional Services (HMCS) has strengthened its commitment to the wellbeing and protection of the girl child through a Gender Networking engagement for Imbali, equipping young girls with practical life skills and knowledge ahead of the 2026 Umhlanga Reed Dance.
The engagement was held at the HMCS Staff College in Matsapha on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, just days before the annual cultural event begins on August 25, with the main ceremony scheduled for August 31, 2026, at Ludzidzini Royal Residence.
The programme brought together Imbali for a full day of learning focused on their physical, emotional and mental wellbeing, ensuring that they are better prepared not only for Umhlanga but also for life beyond the cultural event.
Officially opening the engagement, Deputy Commandant Senior Assistant Commissioner Kenneth Dlamini welcomed the girls and presenters, encouraging them to feel at home throughout the programme.
Senior HMCS officers, including Assistant Commissioner Takhona Motsa, who represented Commissioner Phindile Sibandze, and Assistant Commissioner Futhi Mhlanga, were also present, demonstrating the Correctional Services’ commitment to the development, safety and wellbeing of young girls.
Throughout the day, the Imbali participated in sessions covering life skills, self-awareness, emotional intelligence, mental health and menstrual hygiene.
Presenters from the Guidance and Counselling Office in the Ministry of Education emphasised the importance of self-awareness and informed decision-making, encouraging the girls to understand their worth and make responsible choices as young women.
A key message was delivered by Zodwa Gama, who addressed the Imbali on communication skills and the importance of speaking up.
Gama encouraged the girls to communicate confidently and stand firm when faced with situations that make them uncomfortable.
Her message, “NO is a complete sentence,” reminded the young girls that they have the right to set boundaries and that no one has the right to force them into anything against their will.
Ayanda Simelane reinforced the message, urging the girls to respect themselves, remain confident and avoid being influenced by negative peer pressure.
She encouraged them to know their worth and make decisions that protect their dignity and future.
Health and personal wellbeing also formed a major part of the engagement, with Manzini Region Schools’ Health Nurse Nontethelelo Vilakati taking the girls through menstrual hygiene.
Vilakati urged the Imbali to maintain good personal hygiene and take extra care of themselves while on their periods, particularly during demanding activities associated with Umhlanga.
Mental health was another important area of discussion, with Nakiwe Dlamini from the Public Sector HIV/AIDS Coordinating Committee (PSHACC) sharing practical coping mechanisms to help the girls manage stress, emotions and other challenges they may encounter.
The sessions provided the Imbali with knowledge that can help them navigate both the cultural event and everyday life with greater confidence and awareness.
The Gender Network forms part of HMCS’ broader efforts to support the holistic development of the girl child by ensuring that young participants in national events such as Umhlanga are educated, protected and confident.
With Umhlanga 2026 set to begin on August 25 and culminate in the main ceremony on August 31, the initiative comes at an important time as young girls prepare to take part in the annual cultural celebration.
Through programmes such as the Gender Network, HMCS continues to place the dignity, safety and development of the girl child at the centre of its community-focused initiatives.
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