BY TANDZILE DLAMINI
MBABANE – Young people vulnerable to crime, individuals in conflict with the law, and ex inmates sat side by side with authorities in Manzini on 27 March 2026, sharing lived experiences and seeking practical solutions to the rising cases of gender based violence and youth vulnerability during a multi stakeholder dialogue at ESACRO premises.
The engagement, part of ESACRO’s community outreach initiatives, created a platform for open and frank discussions between affected youth and representatives from the Municipality of Manzini, the Royal Eswatini Police Service (REPS), and His Majesty’s Correctional Services.
Discussions focused on the causes, patterns, and impact of gender based violence, with participants pointing to substance abuse, breakdown of family structures, and socio economic pressures as key drivers. Concerns were also raised over the increasing need to address mental health and sexual and reproductive health challenges among young people navigating difficult circumstances.
Sergeant Thobeka Mathunjwa, from Domestic Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences under Royal Eswatini Police Services, stressed the legal implications of threats of violence. He explained that when a person expresses an intention to cause harm, even without acting on it, the threat can constitute assault if it creates reasonable fear for safety. She further noted that where there is a prior attempt, such conduct may strengthen the legal basis of the offence.
Sergeant Mathunjwa urged communities to report cases of gender based violence and warned against attempts to silence victims. He said anyone who interferes with a person’s decision to report, including pressuring them to remain silent to avoid bringing disgrace to family or community, is committing a criminal offence.
The dialogue ended with a call for stronger partnerships, continued engagement, and community involvement in tackling gender based violence and promoting safer, healthier environments for all.
