First Lady Ms. Kaone Boko has expressed her commitment to addressing the root causes of youth involvement in criminal activities through direct engagement with young offenders. Speaking during her visit to Moshupa Boys Prison yesterday, Ms. Boko emphasized the importance of heart-to-heart conversations as a strategy to understand the challenges faced by youth and to develop solutions that foster positive change.
Ms. Boko highlighted her concerns over the high prevalence of crimes committed by young people, describing it as a troubling trend that demands urgent attention. “The increasing rate of youth involvement in criminal activities is worrisome. We need a concerted effort to find lasting solutions to this problem,” she said.
During her visit, the First Lady interacted with inmates, listening to their stories and exploring the factors that might have contributed to their actions. She noted that understanding the underlying causes of youth crime, such as unemployment, lack of education, family issues, and peer pressure, is critical to designing effective rehabilitation and prevention programs.
Ms. Boko also emphasized the importance of collaboration between stakeholders, including families, schools, communities, and government institutions, in addressing youth crime. She called for enhanced support systems that empower young people with skills, education, and opportunities to lead productive lives.
The visit to Moshupa Boys Prison forms part of the First Lady’s broader initiative to promote social cohesion and inclusivity, particularly among vulnerable groups. She reiterated her belief that with proper guidance and support, young offenders can be rehabilitated and reintegrated into society as responsible citizens.
Youth crime remains a pressing issue in Botswana, with increasing reports of offenses ranging from theft to violent crimes. Ms. Boko’s approach underscores the need for empathetic interventions that focus on prevention, rehabilitation, and reintegration rather than punitive measures alone.
Her advocacy resonates with the broader national efforts to address crime and create a safer environment for all. By engaging directly with youth inmates, Ms. Boko hopes to inspire a shift in perspective, empowering them to envision a future beyond the confines of their current circumstances.
