Africa-Press – Eswatini. In a powerful demonstration of unity and social responsibility, Montigny Investments has joined forces with the Royal Eswatini Police Service (REPS) to tackle two of the nation’s most pressing social challenges — suicide and rape.
The collaboration was officially launched through a landmark event, the “Suicide Indaba,” held at Bhunya Stadium on 8 November 2025 under the theme “Changing the Narrative of the Scourge of Suicide and Rape in Our Society.”
The event marked a significant step towards strengthening the national response to mental health struggles and gender-based violence. It brought together a wide range of stakeholders, including representatives from the Ministry of Health, the Deputy Prime Minister’s Office, SWAGAA, Khwakha Indvodza, members of the judiciary, traditional leaders, community police, and school children. Their shared goal was to create a united front against issues that have deeply affected many Emaswati households.
The day began with a unity walk from Gate 2 to Bhunya Stadium, symbolising collective strength and the importance of standing together to support victims and families affected by suicide and sexual violence. Participants marched in solidarity, carrying banners and messages of hope, underscoring the belief that awareness and compassion can save lives.
The dialogue sessions that followed were moderated by Sihle Mavuso, Nelly Dlamini, and Siphesihle Sihlabani SebeNguni, who guided an engaging discussion on the interconnected challenges of mental health, family disintegration, and community neglect. Speakers reportedly highlighted a troubling rise in suicide cases, particularly among men, as well as the increasing number of rape incidents, many involving minors. They called for society to return to foundational values of respect, empathy, and open communication within families.
Representatives from the Royal Eswatini Police Service expressed concern over the escalating statistics and called for collaborative, preventive interventions. They noted that law enforcement alone could not solve the crisis; instead, collective societal participation was needed. Similarly, community leaders encouraged a revival of traditional dialogue forums such as Indaba Zabantu, which they said could help restore unity and mutual accountability within communities.
Parents and guardians were also urged to take an active role in their children’s emotional and social wellbeing. Speakers stressed that early engagement, attentive listening, and family support could prevent many of the tragedies currently facing young people. “We cannot remain silent,” one panellist was quoted as saying. “Each of us has a role to play in creating hope and breaking the cycle of pain.”
Beyond identifying the challenges, the Suicide Indaba was praised for promoting collaboration between private companies, government institutions, and civil society. Montigny’s involvement was described as a model of corporate leadership that placed human wellbeing at the heart of its social responsibility agenda.
Organisers concluded that the event was not merely a gathering but a call to action — an invitation to all Emaswati to help rebuild a society where life is valued, voices are heard, and every individual feels supported.
Through continued partnerships and open dialogue, initiatives like the Suicide Indaba aim to transform despair into determination, ensuring that the message of hope echoes across the kingdom.
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