A group of boys and young men from Kensington erupted excitedly as they watched a live rugby match at Cape Town Stadium for the first time.
Also read: Cape Flats communities concerned over children joining gangs
The group, aged 15 to 22, eagerly attended the U-20 Rugby World Championship match between France and Spain.
According to News24, the trip was organised by the Kensington Community Policing Forum (CPF) in collaboration with the ward councillor and the Kensington Police Station.
According to Jameelah Liedeman, CPF chair, a group of 25 young men participated in the trip.
‘These youngsters were fighting each other and throwing stones at each other. The ward councillor contacted the CPF, so we got the police involved as well. We met with the boys and their parents. We told the boys that from the age of 13, you could be charged; you might not go to prison, but you would have a criminal record.’
‘When we spoke to the parents, they asked that we do constructive things to keep them occupied. So, we organised a soccer game between the two groups where medals were given and a trophy for the winning team.’
Liedeman said the goal is to engage them in sports.
‘Going forward we want to arrange more friendly games, but the challenge is that most do not have proper soccer boots. It would be great if we could find a sponsor or a soccer club that has kits they are not using for these boys.’
Liedeman noted the boys’ bright smiles as they arrived at the stadium, many experiencing their first live rugby game. Lunch was provided, and Kensington police arranged transport.
‘Just being away from their normal environment. They were getting along and speaking to each other.’
Liedeman emphasised to the group that there is more to life than gangsterism, assuring them of community support and an open door for help.
Liedeman said it was not just a once-off intervention; they hoped to journey with the group.
‘We would also like to arrange a trip for them to Pollsmoor Prison so that they can get to see what it is like there. We want to show them that they have other options and that they can change their lives.’
Also read: