Rebuild the Lives of 70 Imprisoned Eswatini Youth

In January 2026, Super Buddies Club enrolled five young people convicted of minor offences in vocational skills development and entrepreneurship training programmes at Ngihlomise Youth Skills Academy in Big Bend, Lubombo Region, Eswatini. The initiative seeks to facilitate the rehabilitation and social reintegration of young offenders by equipping them with marketable skills, entrepreneurial competencies, and sustainable livelihood opportunities that reduce their risk of reoffending.

The beneficiaries were enrolled in vocational training programmes including Occupational Health and Safety and Domestic Electrical Installation. Upon successful completion of their studies, they will be attached to reputable companies for on-the-job training to enhance their practical experience, strengthen workplace readiness, and improve access to employment opportunities.

To further promote self-reliance and economic empowerment, the participants will also receive training in computer literacy, digital skills, business management, and entrepreneurship. These complementary skills will enable beneficiaries to establish and manage their own enterprises should formal employment opportunities not be readily available.

In addition, the project will provide the following support services:

• Business startup mentorship and enterprise development support
• Product marketing and promotion through social media and digital platforms
• Digital and Artificial Intelligence (AI) skills training to improve access to online work and emerging economic opportunities
• Guidance on business registration, licensing, and regulatory compliance
• Market linkages and networking opportunities with potential clients and partners
• Facilitation of access to financial institutions, grants, and loan facilities for business startup and expansion

The project contributes to crime prevention and community safety by addressing one of the key drivers of youth offending and reoffending: limited access to education, skills development, employment, and income-generating opportunities. Through rehabilitation, skills acquisition, and economic empowerment, the initiative aims to support young offenders in becoming productive and responsible members of society.

Challenges

1. Limited Funding for Tuition Fees

The programme currently faces inadequate financial resources to fully support tuition fees for enrolled beneficiaries. While the current cohort consists of five participants, the programme has a long-term target of supporting up to 70 young offenders, a goal that remains unattainable without additional funding.

2. Inadequate Training Materials and Equipment

The training institution lacks sufficient practical training materials, tools, and equipment required for hands-on learning. This limitation affects the quality of training delivery and the beneficiaries’ ability to acquire industry-relevant practical skills.

3. Limited Capacity to Recruit and Retain Qualified Trainers

Financial constraints restrict the academy’s ability to attract, adequately compensate, and retain qualified trainers and technical instructors. This may affect the consistency, effectiveness, and quality of training provided to participants.

4. Lack of Startup Capital for Graduates

Many beneficiaries complete their training without access to startup kits, tools, equipment, or seed capital necessary to establish businesses or pursue self-employment opportunities.

5. Limited Digital Infrastructure and ICT Resources

The programme has insufficient computers, internet connectivity, and digital learning resources required to equip beneficiaries with modern digital, technological, and AI-related skills that are increasingly demanded in the labour market.

6. Transportation and Psychosocial Support Challenges

Some beneficiaries face difficulties in meeting transportation costs to attend training sessions. In addition, many require psychosocial support and mentorship to address personal and social challenges that may affect attendance, participation, performance, and retention.

Funding Needs

The project is seeking financial and technical support in the following areas:

• Tuition fees for vocational, digital skills, and entrepreneurship training programmes
• Procurement of training materials, tools, and practical equipment
• Purchase of sewing machines, plumbing toolkits, electrical installation equipment, and personal protective clothing
• Computer equipment, software, and internet connectivity for digital skills training
• Trainer and facilitator allowances
• Startup kits, business incubation support, and seed funding for graduates
• Transportation support for vulnerable beneficiaries
• Psychosocial support, counselling, and mentorship services
• Monitoring, evaluation, and learning activities
• Business development, market linkage, and networking initiatives

Expected Outcomes

• Reduced rates of youth offending and reoffending among programme beneficiaries.
• Improved employability and income-generating capacity of young offenders.
• Increased access to formal employment, internships, and apprenticeship opportunities.
• Establishment of youth-led enterprises and self-employment initiatives.
• Enhanced digital, entrepreneurial, and vocational skills among beneficiaries.
• Improved social reintegration and community participation of young offenders.
• Strengthened community safety and economic resilience.