KZN MEC SHINGA CALLS ON BOYS TO BE PROTECTORS DURING PROVINCIAL BOYS’ ASSEMBLY IN DIDIMA CAMP

By Sifiso Xulu and Bongi Shozi.

• The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Social Development(DSD) is currently holding a Boys’ Assembly under the theme ‘Building young men of character: Protectors, not predators’.
• Speaking at the event, MEC Mbali Shinga said: “We need boys who understand that real strength lies in kindness, in discipline, and in making the right choices even when no one is watching.”
• The goal of the event is to empower the boys to make positive changes in their lives and those of others around them.

The KZN DSD formally kicked off the Provincial Boys Assembly at the Didima Camp in the UThukela District Municipality on 6 October 2025, with the focus on building young men of character.

The MEC for Social Development, Mbali Shinga, expressed excitement in her opening address at the event: “It’s truly an honor to be here today with all of you at this significant Boys Camp, themed: ‘Building young men of character: Protectors, not predators’.”

MEC Shinga added that what was needed was boys who would speak up when others were silent, boys who would say no to violence and yes to respect.

“We need boys who understand that real strength lies in kindness, in discipline, and in making the right choices even when no one is watching. That is how you become protectors, not predators.”

She emphasised that the camp was not just about having fun and going on adventures; it was also a space for personal growth, reflection, and finding purpose. “We need boys who … will lift others up rather than tear them down,” she added.

The MEC acknowledged that her department has faced some criticism for putting more focus on girls, and admitted there was some truth to those claims.

“For a long time, we designed our programmes to support girls due to the vulnerabilities they face.

“But today, I want to be clear: we’re intentionally shifting some of our focus to boys, too,” Shinga said.

“We can’t create a safer and better South Africa if we empower just one side and leave the other behind. Boys also need guidance, mentorship, and chances to grow into men of integrity. That’s why gatherings like this camp are so vital,” Shinga stated.

The aim of the Provincial Boys Assembly aligns with the provincial crime prevention strategy.

Throughout this time together, the boys will discuss issues such as gender-based violence, substance abuse, and how to promote accountability among young men so they can be protectors of their female peers.

They will also address pressing societal issues like the impact of absent fathers and various health challenges within their communities.

This enriching assembly takes place from 5 – 8 October 2025 at the Didima Ezemvelo Wildlife Camp.

It offers these young boys a valuable chance to have meaningful conversations, forge friendships, and develop essential skills that will help them become responsible and compassionate members of society.

The overall goal is to enlighten the boys and empower them to make positive changes in their lives and those of others around them.