​The Department of Social Development hosted an educational session on prevention of gangsterism and bullying at Khayalethu Care Centre in Kliptown, Soweto last Friday.
Addressing parent and children, the Department’s Social Crime Prevention Unit Social Work Manager, Veronica Sihawu, said the purpose of session was to educate parents on the challenges of gangsters and bullying in communities, as these challenges were becoming a pandemic in society.

“Some of the children take their lives because of being bullied by others. Some join gangs because they want to belong, and some feel safe when they are part of a gang”. There are consequences of gangsterism. When you are part of a gang, your safety, and your family are compromised. They can attack your family members to compel you to do whatever they want” said Sihawu.

Speaking at same event, Linda Makhathini, Social Work Manager for Social Crime Prevention Unit at National Office explained the origin of gangsters.

Makhathini said, “Gangsters started more than hundred years ago. It started in the mines by two men, Nongoloza and Kilikijan. They both started to commit crimes and gangsterism spread to our communities. So, we are dealing with an old problem and we cannot fold our arms and let things be. We have to look at how it is affecting our communities and we must come up with solutions”.

She gave parents tips on how to communicate with their children. She advised them to be curious and vigilant about their children’s daily lives. She further encouraged parents to listen to them to understand their children’s feelings.

“Put clear consequences in place so that they think twice before doing something out of turn. Try to be available when needed. Try to use their greatest connection. Parents do not have to agree to everything children say but be considerate and encourage respect always”, Makhathini explains.

Parents were encouraged to make use of the departmental services at no cost as these services were offered for free. Social Development offices are spread across the province and Social Workers are always at hand to assist you.