ANTI-GANG CAMPAIGN REACHES ZAKHENI SECONDARY AS YOUTH VIOLENCE RISES

By Tholakele Makena.

•⁠ ⁠Zakheni Secondary was identified as a priority intervention site following multiple learner arrests linked to gang-related activities. Teacher Mr Jabu Ndlovu highlighted the seriousness of the issue, saying, “Bullying is a serious problem here.”
•⁠ ⁠The Anti-Gangsterism Educational and Dialogue Session brought together learners, educators, parents, South African Police Service (SAPS), and local leaders to address violence and promote safer schools through open dialogue and education.
•⁠ ⁠Former offender Mr Sabelo Motha delivered a powerful warning to learners: “I regret the choices I made, and I want young people to focus on their education. There is nothing good about being in prison.”

In response to the rising concerns around gangsterism, bullying, and gender-based violence affecting young people, communities across Mpumalanga are strengthening their efforts to create safer and more supportive environments for youth. A recent campaign led by the Department of Social Development (DSD), in collaboration with the Mpumalanga Provincial Government, is prioritising high-risk areas by facilitating integrated educational and dialogue sessions.

As part of this initiative, an Anti-Gangsterism Educational and Dialogue Session was held at Zakheni Secondary School in the Nkangala District. The school was specifically selected due to its concerning number of child arrests linked to gang-related activities, marking it as a priority intervention site.

The session brought together a range of stakeholders, including learners, educators, parents, community leaders, and representatives from the South African Police Service (SAPS), the Department of Correctional Services, and local government. The engagement aimed to raise awareness of the dangers associated with gangsterism and related social issues, while encouraging open dialogue between young people and the broader community.

The initiative aligns with national efforts to address youth violence through education, prevention, and sustained collaboration among various sectors.

Mr Jabu Ndlovu, a teacher at Zakheni Secondary School and resident of Kwamhlanga Zone 3, welcomed the campaign at the school. Speaking on the challenges faced daily, Mr Ndlovu explained that gangsterism is prevalent both in the school and the surrounding community. “We have learners forming groups that often oppose learners from other schools. Bullying is a serious problem here,” he said.

Mr Ndlovu explained the notion of ‘touch one, touch all,’ which refers to situations where a disagreement with one member of a group results in collective opposition from the entire group. He also expressed concern regarding gambling activities occurring during school hours and highlighted the challenges educators encounter when attempting to address these issues.

Furthermore, Mr Ndlovu emphasised the importance of consistent police involvement in schools and suggested regular, announced searches by the SAPS to discourage criminal behaviour. “We are grateful that this campaign has come to our school. Our learners need to understand the risks of gangsterism and make better choices,” he said.

The engagement also featured a personal testimony from Mr Sabelo Motha, an ex-offender recently released from prison after serving time for gang-related crimes. Speaking candidly, he shared the realities of life in prison. “It’s not a good place. Inmates face abuse and are often forced to join prison gangs,” he said.
Mr Motha detailed how prison gangs operate, describing groups such as the 25s, 26s, and 28’s, each associated with different forms of criminal behaviour, including violence, drug dealing, and abuse. “Gangsterism continues even behind bars. I regret the choices I made, and I want young people to focus on their education. There is nothing good about being in prison,” he warned.
The Department of Social Development emphasised that creating safer schools and communities requires a united effort from all sectors of society. Through continuous engagement, education, and support, the campaign aims to empower young people to reject violence and build positive futures.
To further support those affected by violence, the Gender-Based Violence Command Centre (GBVCC) provides a range of accessible, confidential services. Individuals in need can contact the GBVCC at 0800 428 428 (0800 GBV GBV). Additional options include:
•⁠ ⁠USSD: 1207867# (free from any cellphone)
•⁠ ⁠SMS: text “HELP” to 31531 (especially for persons with disabilities or those unable to speak)
These services are available 24/7, completely free, and ensure confidentiality for all users.