ESWATINI ZAMA ZAMAS FIGHTING FOR SURVIVAL

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

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