A recent boot camp organised by Men’s Conference at Mmamoleane Farm in Lotlhakane West highlighted a recurring concern among young boys: the need for greater emotional involvement from their fathers.
Many of the boys who attended the event with their fathers and other male figures expressed a desire for more quality time and personal interaction, beyond financial support like paying school fees or covering daily expenses. One participant shared that his father, who is heavily involved in running a business, is often too busy to be present in his life. As a result, he relies on his older brother for guidance on issues that affect boys growing up.
The boys spoke on the need for active parenting, noting that nurturing responsible and well-rounded children requires more than just meeting material needs.
Men’s Conference chairperson and event host, Kgosietsile Ngakaagae, explained that the boot camp was designed to address issues such as gender-based violence by nurturing responsible boys and promoting peaceful coexistence between boys and girls. He pointed out that tackling these challenges requires proactive parenting and community involvement.
Ngakaagae added that the focus on boys stems from statistics showing that men are often the perpetrators in violent crimes and make up the majority of the prison population.
Welcoming attendees to the event, Kgosi Oscar Mosielele of Moshupa expressed optimism that initiatives like the boot camp would help shape boys into responsible adults and contribute positively to solving broader social issues.
One of the event organisers Louis Sibanda, who chaired the planning committee, expressed deep gratitude to the team behind the event and spoke candidly about his own journey into leadership. “Today was more than an event—it was a statement. It was proof that when men come together not just to speak but to build, to labour, to serve—they raise not just their voices, but kings,” he said.
Sibanda paid special tribute to Ngakaagae, who not only hosted the event but actively participated in the preparations. “You invested time, resources, and heart—upgrading the farm, unloading trucks under the cover of night, skinning animals, and preparing the grounds with your own hands. You did not have to, but you did. That commitment cannot be bought,” said Sibanda.
He also acknowledged the team’s behind-the-scenes contributors, including Salim Kegodile for capturing the event through visuals, Obakeng Matlou for strategic guidance, Ephraim Kooreng for publicity, and Bella for her emerging leadership role. “To every brother who gave their time, skill, and strength—this was your doing,” he added.
Reflecting on his personal growth, Sibanda noted, “I’ve always preferred staying in the background, quiet, practical, hidden in the noise of the pots and tasks. But today reminded me: it’s not about being loud, it’s about being present. Thank you for allowing me to serve.”
The boot camp, supported by sponsors including Ngakaagae, Nako Guest House, UNICEF, Leeroy, and Mahalapye Cement, is part of a larger movement to cultivate responsible masculinity through mentorship, emotional connection, and active fatherhood.
