LUDZIDZINI – Hundreds of pastors from across Eswatini have pledged to take the fight against gangsterism to churches nationwide following a lecture delivered by His Majesty’s Correctional Services at Ludzidzini Royal Residence on Monday.
The gathering brought together church leaders under the League of Churches to confront the growing threat of gangsterism, particularly among young people. The session was led by officers from His Majesty’s Correctional Services who laid out how youths are drawn into gangs and why faith leaders must be part of the response.
During the presentation, correctional officers detailed the factors pushing young people towards gangsterism. These include peer pressure, the search for belonging, socio economic hardships and exposure to harmful influences. Officers also shared insights drawn from their experiences managing offenders within correctional facilities across the country. 
The discussion examined the damage caused by gangsterism to families, communities and institutions, including churches which have also felt the impact. Pastors were reminded of their dual role as spiritual shepherds and as influential figures within their communities. They were encouraged to detect early warning signs, offer guidance and create safe spaces for young people who may be vulnerable or already involved in gang related activities.
As the session unfolded, many pastors reflected on the realities facing their own congregations. Several acknowledged that gangsterism has quietly taken root in communities and requires both prayer and practical action.
In a collective show of commitment, the pastors vowed to take the message back to their congregations. They undertook to educate members, engage young people more intentionally and work closely with families to curb the spread of gangsterism.
“This session has opened our eyes. We now understand that we cannot remain silent as the church. We have a duty to guide, protect and restore our young people,” said one of the pastors.
Church leaders expressed appreciation to His Majesty’s Correctional Services for convening what they described as a timely engagement. They appealed for the programme to be extended to chiefdoms across the country so that grassroots communities, where the problem is most visible, can also benefit.
