By Mfanufikile Khathwane (Intern)
MBABANE– World Vision Eswatini, in partnership with One Billion Rising, is taking urgent action to address the alarming surge in violence against children across the country. The increase in cases including reports of children going missing and later being found dead has sparked national outrage and a renewed call to action.
In an exclusive interview with Eswatini TV, Lungile Zwane, Communications and Campaign Manager at World Vision Eswatini, voiced deep concern over the escalating crisis.
“As an organization, we are devastated. It’s disheartening because we have done a lot to raise awareness on child protection,” said Zwane. “We will now be implementing additional laws to strengthen existing child protection legislation. We believe these measures will help prevent or at least reduce this growing pandemic “ she added.
According to Colani Hlatjwako, a representative of One Billion Rising, emphasized the need for grassroots involvement and parental vigilance.
“Our organization works closely with communities and understands the challenges they face. No parent deserves to lose a child in such a cruel manner,” she said. “In many areas, children travel long distances to reach shops, schools, or fetch water. Parents need to supervise their children more closely and ensure they know their whereabouts.”
Hlatjwako also raised a red flag about the risks of economic desperation, urging communities to remain vigilant. “People must be cautious not to be manipulated into aiding human trafficking or other criminal acts out of desperation,” she warned.
Both organizations are calling for an expanded role of Community Police in the fight against child violence. They stressed the need for proper training of officers and encouraged youth participation in crime prevention initiatives.
In a stakeholder meeting held yesterday with the Deputy Prime Minister’s Office and the Royal Eswatini Police Service, authorities discussed robust strategies to combat the crisis. A key resolution was the mobilization of existing community networks to disseminate safety information and cultivate a protective environment for children.
As part of the collective response, community members are being urged to report unfamiliar individuals in their areas to local authorities a step seen as vital in the broader strategy to safeguard the nation’s children.
(Pics by: Eswatini TV)
