In a concerning revelation, young people have been identified as the majority of perpetrators in murder cases across Botswana. Despite the year just beginning, the police have already recorded over 30 murder cases, raising alarm about the rising violence among the youth.
Addressing the media yesterday, Police Commissioner Dinah Marathe acknowledged that while issues such as poverty and unemployment play significant roles in fueling these violent acts, public education and awareness campaigns could be instrumental in addressing the root causes of youth violence.
Commissioner Marathe emphasized that the alarming trend of young people being involved in such brutal crimes is not only a reflection of socio-economic issues but also indicative of deeper societal challenges. “We cannot ignore the connection between poverty, unemployment, and violence, but we must also look at how we, as a society, can help our youth make better choices and avoid engaging in harmful activities,” she stated.
Marathe highlighted the importance of public education and awareness programs that focus on conflict resolution, emotional intelligence, and the consequences of violence. She believes that empowering young people with knowledge about their rights, responsibilities, and the value of life can be crucial in steering them away from a path of crime. “We need to engage young people in meaningful conversations about their futures and show them that there are alternatives to violence,” she said.
The police commissioner also called for greater collaboration between government institutions, non-governmental organizations, and local communities to tackle the rising youth violence. She believes that creating more opportunities for young people to engage in productive activities, such as education, sports, and vocational training, can help reduce the likelihood of their involvement in violent crimes.
As the nation grapples with the growing problem of youth violence, the role of public education and awareness in curbing such behaviour has never been more critical. Marathe’s statement highlights the need for a multi-faceted approach that combines social, economic, and educational interventions to address the root causes of crime and provide young people with the tools they need to build better, violence-free futures.
