Maphilingo – Young people, community leaders and partners came together today for a powerful Community Youth Dialogue aimed at equipping youth with knowledge, confidence and practical tools to navigate key challenges in their lives.
Hosted in Maphilingo under Siphofaneni Inkhundla, the dialogue created a safe, engaging space for young people to learn, ask questions and share their experiences on issues ranging from HIV prevention and health services to crime prevention, violence, and leadership.
At the heart of the event was Nazarene Compassionate Ministries Eswatini (NCM-E), which used the platform to share essential information on HIV prevention, care and support. Through the READY Movement, NCM-E introduced a package of youth-friendly services designed specifically for Adolescent Girls and Young Women (AGYW) and young people living with HIV.
These include:
- Accurate information on PrEP and PEP – helping young people understand how to prevent HIV infection before exposure (PrEP) and what to do after potential exposure (PEP).
- Youth-friendly HIV education – delivered in a language and environment that respects and understands young people.
- Peer support and safe spaces – creating circles where youth can talk openly about their struggles, mental health, relationships and health decisions without fear of judgement.
- Linkage to health services – ensuring that those who need testing, treatment or follow-up care are connected to clinics and providers.
- Advocacy training and mentorship – empowering young people, especially AGYW and youth living with HIV, to become champions of change in their communities.
NCM-E emphasized that young people are not just beneficiaries of programmes – they are leaders, advocates and partners in building a healthier, more supportive Eswatini.
Partners United for Safer, Stronger Communities
The dialogue also brought together key partners who each addressed critical aspects of youth wellbeing and community safety.
The Eswatini Association for Crime Prevention and the Rehabilitation of Offenders (ESACRO) led a session on youth crime prevention. They spoke about the drivers of crime among young people, how bad choices can affect their future, and the importance of making positive decisions. ESACRO encouraged youth to become ambassadors of peace and safety in their communities – choosing constructive paths over violence, substance abuse or crime.
The Royal Eswatini Police Service (REPS) played a vital role by speaking openly about sexual and domestic violence, crime prevention and the importance of reporting abuse. Officers highlighted the different channels available for reporting cases – including local police stations and community structures – and reassured young people that the law is there to protect them. They urged youth not to remain silent in the face of violence, but to seek help and support when they or their peers are at risk.
Representing local leadership, the Siphofaneni Bucopho addressed young people on participation and leadership within the constituency. He highlighted the newly formed youth team in Siphofaneni and encouraged more young people to join, get involved and have a voice in community development processes. His message was clear: when youth are organised, informed and united, they are a powerful force for change.
Building an Empowered Generation
The energy and engagement at Maphilingo showed that when youth are given space to speak and be heard, they respond with enthusiasm and honesty. The dialogue allowed participants to ask questions, challenge myths, and share real-life experiences about health, relationships, safety and the pressures they face every day.
By the end of the session, young people left with:
- Better understanding of HIV prevention tools like PrEP and PEP
- Knowledge of where to access youth-friendly health and support services
- Clear information on how to report violence and crime
- Encouragement to take up leadership roles in their constituency
- A sense of solidarity – knowing they are not alone
This Community Youth Dialogue at Maphilingo is part of a broader effort by NCM-E and partners to ensure that young people in Eswatini are informed, protected and supported to thrive.
Together, we are building informed, confident and empowered youth who can shape a safer and healthier future for themselves and their communities.
