Times Of Swaziland: ESWATINI ZAMA ZAMAS FIGHTING FOR SURVIVAL

ESWATINI ZAMA ZAMAS FIGHTING FOR SURVIVAL
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Editor on 10/12/2024 06:52:00


Sir,
I am writing to address a pressing issue that resonates deeply with the
struggles faced by the majority of emaSwati in our country.
It is a grim reality that many individuals do not earn a decent salary, forcing
them to resort to various forms of side hustling to make ends meet. Some of
these endeavours are legal, while others are decidedly more dubious. It is
essential to highlight the range of activities in which people engage to
survive, reflecting the broader socio-economic challenges we face. Many workers,
including teachers, often ‘steal’ time and resources from their employers, a
practice that, while not strictly illegal, raises ethical concerns.
Activities
Others find themselves drawn into more illicit activities such as drug
cultivation and trafficking, the theft of valuable materials like cables and
pipes and even the illegal sale of alcohol. Prostitution and other forms of
underground work also contribute to this extensive list of survival tactics
employed by those struggling to get by. Illegal mining, often referred to as
‘zama zama’, is another avenue that has gained notoriety in recent years.
While some might dismiss it as an easy way to make money, the truth is that it
is fraught with danger and uncertainty. The risks involved—both physical and
legal—are significant, and the individuals engaged in this form of mining
often operate in perilous conditions.
Acknowledge
It is crucial to acknowledge that these actions stem from a desperate need for
survival, rather than a desire for criminality. In this context, I find it
particularly disheartening to witness the reactions of our authorities towards
these individuals. The punitive measures often displayed, as reported in the
Times, can seem excessively harsh and quite frankly, disgusting. Those who
perceive these illegal activities as especially immoral should take a moment to
reflect on the systemic issues at play. It is essential to recognise that many
of these individuals resort to such actions out of sheer necessity, driven by a
lack of viable alternatives.
Moreover, the Times has done a commendable job of shedding light on the rampant
looting that occurs, often at the hands of those in power. However, it is
alarming to note how the treatment of smaller offenders starkly contrasts with
that of higher-profile criminals. We often witness the latter evading
significant consequences, with many of them returning to the streets shortly
after their arrests, having paid minimal bail. The justice system appears to be
painfully slow, with cases dragging on for years, if they even reach a
conclusion.
Troubling
This disparity highlights a troubling aspect of our society, where the scales of
justice seem tipped in favour of those with power and influence. It raises the
question: How can we expect the average liSwati to adhere to the law when they
see such blatant examples of inequality in the treatment of offenders? The
plight of the zama zama and others engaged in similar activities is a symptom of
a much larger problem, one that requires urgent attention and systemic change.
We must strive to create an environment where individuals can earn a decent
living without resorting to illegal activities.
Flame Tree