BY MFANUFIKILE KHATHWANE
KaLANGA – A powerful story of transformation, forgiveness and rehabilitation has emerged as Chief Jozane Maziya has placed his trust in reformed former inmate Boyce Bhekinkosiyezulu Gama to help motivate communities against crime, gangsterism and drugs.
Boyce Bhekinkosiyezulu Gama was once sentenced to death after being convicted of murder in 1993. His sentence was later commuted to life imprisonment, marking the beginning of a long journey of rehabilitation that eventually led to his release under a Royal Pardon.
Senator Chief Jozane said communities are increasingly in need of voices that speak from real experience, noting that Gama’s life journey makes him a strong example for young people.
“Nami ku communities sengitfole lija lengitabo lisebentisa ku motivetha labanye,” said the Chief, highlighting that Gama will now be used to reach out and warn youth about the dangers of crime, drug abuse and gangsterism.
The Chief officially commanded Gama who was recently released under a Royal Pardon by His Majesty King Mswati III to work closely with community structures in spreading messages of change, discipline and hope.
A LIFE TRANSFORMED BEHIND BARS
Speaking openly, Boyce Gama shared that he spent 35 years in prison, having been incarcerated since 1992 following a murder conviction in 1993, where he was initially sentenced to death.
“I was in prison for 35 years. I received Christ in 1997 while in prison. It was difficult, but I ended up trusting Him,” said Gama.
He further expressed deep remorse for his past actions, saying he has since asked for forgiveness from those he wronged and now dedicates his life to positive change.
His journey took a turning point in 2001 when a delegation from His Majesty King Mswati III informed him that his sentence had been commuted from death to life imprisonment, marking the beginning of a long legal and personal transformation process.
EDUCATION, FAITH AND REDEMPTION
Despite entering prison with limited education, Gama used his time behind bars to rebuild his life academically and spiritually. He later obtained a degree in Psychology, along with other studies in theology and Bible-based learning, becoming a voice of hope within correctional facilities.
He also thanked Their Majesties, Correctional Services authorities, and all those who supported his journey, noting that discipline and education played a key role in his transformation.
Gama further commended the institutions and schools where he has begun engaging in community service, saying he has been treated with dignity and respect.
COMMUNITY TRUST AND NEW ROLE
Chief Jozane decision to entrust Gama with motivational responsibilities marks a significant step in rehabilitation-led community outreach. The Chief emphasized that lived experience is a powerful tool in deterring young people from crime.
Gama’s story once marked by a death sentence, later reduced to life imprisonment, and now reshaped through royal pardon stands as a strong example of second chances and personal reform.
In a society increasingly challenged by rising youth crime and substance abuse, Gama’s journey stands as a living testimony that transformation is possible, even from the darkest chapters of life.
His message, backed by both traditional leadership and lived experience, now carries a powerful warning and hope: no life is beyond redemption, and every community holds the power to rebuild itself through discipline, forgiveness and change.
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