By Mfanufikile Khathwane (Intern)
MBABANE – The Swaziland Action Group Against Abuse (SWAGAA) Executive Director, Nonhlanhla Dlamini, has expressed concern over the increasing number of suicides and incidents of people killing their loved ones in Eswatini.
She emphasized the importance of communication and emotional support in relationships as a way to curb these tragic events.
Dlamini shared her views during an interview with EBIS. She said the heartbreaking news of such incidents is deeply painful for those who hear about them.
“If pain could kill a person, many of us wouldn’t be alive because of the pain we feel when we hear or see these tragedies,” she said.
This comes after yesterday’s Times of Eswatini headline reported that a businessman from Ntjontjeni had set himself alight and died. Just last week, World Vision Eswatini issued a press release condemning the brutal murder of a 9-year-old girl.
Dlamini strongly condemned taking one’s own life or that of another as a solution to problems.
“Instead of violence, couples should sit down, talk, and find common ground. Every relationship has disagreements, but healthy discussions are key to resolving them,” she explained.
She also advised that separating peacefully is a better option than resorting to violence.
Dlamini praised those who seek help from SWAGAA and encouraged more people to speak out and get support. She highlighted that even individuals who had considered using dangerous weapons such as Guns against loved ones changed their minds after receiving counselling. She noted that there are many people to get help from. This include pastors, health professionals, and family members.
She pointed to poor upbringing as one of the major reasons young people struggle with rejection in relationships.
“Parents must not always give their children everything they want. Sometimes you have to say no not because you can’t afford it, but to teach responsibility,” she said. Spoiling children, she added, leads to unrealistic expectations in adulthood, making it hard for them to cope with disappointment.
Further urged couples to renew their love and understand that challenges are a normal part of any relationship.
Dlamini also warned that abusive behavior, especially from a controlling partner, can be a sign of danger. Instead, she encouraged couples to uplift each other with kind words like you have dressed well my love, today you look beautiful. And encouraged mutual respect.
“Life is sacred and protected by the Constitution. Let’s value it and choose dialogue over violence.
