Africa-Press – Eswatini. The deep sorrow and outrage over the recent surge in child killings and gender-based violence across the Kingdom of Eswatini. The disturbing trend, which has seen innocent lives stolen in the most brutal ways, has shocked the nation and demands immediate collective action.
Recent incidents include:
The rape and murder of a 9-year-old girl from Mhlangatane, whose body was found dumped in a dam.
The kidnapping and killing of 8-year-old Tifezile Gwebu of Sigudumba area.
The tragic killing of a 5-year-old boy from Mpini, abducted and murdered under mysterious circumstances.
The violation and murder of a 16-year-old girl, compounding the nation’s grief.
These horrifying crimes have left families devastated and communities in mourning. In less than five months, multiple children have been murdered and scores of others have been sexually assaulted, with official reports revealing over 300 cases of child rape within that period.
“This is not just a crime wave — this is a national emergency,” reads part of the statement from EPN. “Every child deserves to feel safe, grow loved, and be protected. What we are witnessing is an assault on Eswatini’s future, and we cannot be silent.”
A CALL TO ACTION
EPN calls on the Government of Eswatini, the Royal Eswatini Police Service (REPS), the judiciary, civil society, and communities to act with urgency and resolve. Specifically, EPN urges:
The formation of a National Child Safety Taskforce under the Deputy Prime Minister’s Office.
Increased police visibility, patrols and investigations in known hotspots.
Fast-tracked trials and harsh sentencing for perpetrators of crimes against children and women.
The establishment of community-based alert systems and safety committees in every Inkhundla.
Expanded public education campaigns on child rights and protection.
Greater support for victim shelters, child helplines, and trauma services.
PROTECTING YOUNG WOMEN AND GIRLS
EPN also notes with growing concern the targeting of young women and adolescent girls, particularly in rural areas. The organisation stresses the urgent need to protect girls from sexual violence, abduction, and exploitation, and to ensure that perpetrators face justice.
STAND FOR THE CHILDREN – MOURN THE LOST
“We mourn the children who have been lost. We stand with the grieving families. We call on every Liswati to be vigilant and proactive. The responsibility to protect our children does not rest on the police alone — it belongs to all of us,” the statement continues.
EPN urges all citizens to report suspicious behaviour, protect the children around them, and support national efforts to end violence against the vulnerable. The organisation reiterates its commitment to using its platform to amplify stories that protect life, dignity, and hope.
The online publication committed to amplifying uplifting, informative, and constructive narratives that build national unity, celebrate progress, and advocate for social justice. The predd is a voice for the voiceless, and stands firm in calling for an Eswatini where every child grows up safe, loved, and free.
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