Pilot project aims to halt child gangs

08 September 2026

Violent altercations between child gangs in Manenberg was the impetus for the project to encourage young boys at risk to make positive choices and show them that a healthier, alternative lifestyle is possible. This past weekend, the first group of 18 boys between 10 and 18 years old, attended the camp at the Chrysalis Academy.

In December 2025, the Safety and Security Directorate received multiple complaints about vicious stone throwing fights in Manenberg, with more than 300 incidents recorded by City CCTV cameras over an 18-month period. 

The violent clashes resulted in serious cases such as murder and attempted murder and investigations led to the discovery that teen boys had formed child gangs and were involved in the altercations as they marked their "turf". 

An inter-governmental task team, made up of the different role players, was established to attempt to address the problem.

Safety and Security funded the camp under the Public Safety Training College's Youth Cadet Programme. 

Central to the camp was the provision of male mentors for each child in the form of a Metro Police Neighbourhood Safety Officer or Law Enforcement School Resource Officer. 

‘Mentors provided guidance and practical insight based on their own experience, and showing the group of young men how to be tough without turning to anger, violence or substance abuse.

'The camp culminated in the boys taking a pledge to turn away from the gangs and start rebuilding their lives. It was heartwarming to see the dedication exhibited by the participants. Going forward, the teams will assess some of the key findings to establish what steps will be taken next,' said Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security, Alderman JP Smith.

The group participated in a series of assessments, including drug screening, medical checks and one-on-one sessions with social workers from Child Welfare; they engaged in a range of physical activities, group and self-development sessions aimed at showing them an alternative lifestyle.

Motivational talks were presented by senior Safety and Security officials including Law Enforcement Chief, Jason Hamilton, who grew up in Manenberg, while a survivor who suffered serious head injuries during one of the clashes spoke to them about his journey, which culminated in a miraculous recovery and permanently leaving the gangs. 

The key partners involved in the project were the Department of Social Development, Police Oversight and Community Safety, the Western Cape Education Department and the Chrysalis Academy.

‘We could not have done this without the support from the directorate and sponsors like the Chrysalis Academy, POCS, the deputy mayor's office and the Boyz to Men Hair Studio, who provided haircuts for all participants. While it may seem like a small gesture, it’s a step into showing these young boys they are worthy and capable of so much more,’ added Alderman Smith.

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