The South African Police Service (SAPS) uMzinyathi District joined more than 200 young boys at the Silwanetshe Boys to Men Camp in Nquthu on July 13.

The programme, held at the Makhoba Hall, was organised by the Office of the Premier in partnership with the uMzinyathi District Municipality, Nquthu Local Municipality and other government departments and stakeholders. It aimed to mentor and empower young boys with the skills needed to become responsible and law-abiding citizens.

Building responsible young men

Throughout the camp, participants attended sessions on discipline, respect, resilience, anger management, substance abuse and responsible decision-making. Traditional values and cultural practices were also promoted as part of the programme.

SAPS representatives from the District Communication Office and Dundee Rural Safety Unit presented crime prevention talks, highlighting the consequences of offences such as drug-related crimes, assault, theft, rape, stock theft and the unlawful possession of dangerous weapons.

Police spokesperson Sergeant Siyabonga Nkwanyana said the boys were encouraged to resist peer pressure, make positive life choices and become ambassadors for crime prevention in their communities.

The initiative was supported by representatives from the Office of the Premier, the Independent Electoral Commission, the Departments of Education and Health, traditional leaders, councillors and other community stakeholders.

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