Madam,
In Eswatini, lisango brought men together across generations. What emerged was not just conversation, but a clear call to action.
The issues raised included mental health, financial pressure, parenting, gender-based violence and the realities of the Sexual Offences and Domestic Violence (SODV) Act. These are not abstract concerns. They are urgent and affect families and communities every day. Talking about matters is not enough on its own. What matters now is what follows after the conversations.
One message stood out clearly: “A problem shared is half solved.” Yet many men remain silent. Vulnerability is often avoided because it is later used against them. This must change. If we want different outcomes, we must create environments where men can speak freely and feel safe in doing so.
Silence builds pressure. Like a balloon filling with air, emotional strain grows over time, and no one ever knows when it will finally snap. When that moment comes, the consequences can be severe for individuals, families and society. This does not excuse harmful actions such as gender-based violence, but it does highlight the importance of early intervention.
We must check on our brothers consistently and intentionally. This is not something to do only when it is convenient, but something that requires commitment. Conversations about stress, failure and uncertainty must become normal. Asking for help should be seen as discipline and self-awareness, not weakness.
There are also difficult realities we must face. His Majesty’s Correctional Services oversees 12 Correctional facilities, 11 for men and only one for women. Out of about 4 459 inmates, fewer than 300 are female. These numbers point to a deeper problem. Something is going wrong in the life of the liSwati boy child long before he becomes a man.
This means intervention cannot begin in adulthood. It must begin early through mentorship, guidance and strong examples of manhood. Too many young men are left to define themselves without direction. The work started at lisango must continue in homes, schools and communities.
Men must also take responsibility for themselves. Knowing your limits matters. Learning to say no matters. Protecting your time, finances and energy matters. Givers have limits, but takers often do not. Without boundaries, exhaustion becomes inevitable.
Legal awareness is equally important. The SODV Act must be understood before mistakes are made. Ignorance of the law is not an excuse. Responsible men take the time to educate themselves and act with awareness.
Lisango is not the final answer. It is a starting point. Real change depends on what happens next. We must support one another, speak openly, guide the next generation and hold each other accountable.
Injobo lenhle itfungelwa ebandla.
In Eswatini, lisango brought men together across generations. What emerged was not just conversation, but a clear call to action.
