Gangsterism has become a cultural phenomenon amongst youth in South Africa. This phenomenon which emerged decades ago in coloured townships in Gauteng South Africa appears to have exacerbated in recent years. The manner in which gang violence has spread throughout South Africa and particularly in greater Johannesburg is a concern. The growth in amongst youth between the ages 18 and 25 years which are often led by older gang leaders. These gangs, among others includes the ‘umbrella’s, ‘varados’ and fast guns’ that appears to include the descendants of older gangs in townships that includes Westbury, Riverlea, Eersterus, Eldorado Park, Rygerpark and Toekomsrus. The study explores how these gangs spread hindering the very fabric of societies. Pertinent questions were explored to assess reasons for the growth in gangsterism, what motivates the youth to join? Why members leave one area but do not leave behind their gang membership and start elsewhere? What patterns that emerges that can be compared to Covid-19? Could mobility, identity, racism, unemployment, or community care play a role in the way in which gangsterism exacerbates? To understand these phenomena, the study applied a mixed-method approach that combines qualitative research methods to explore gangsterism and gun violence. Exploring the gangsterism phenomenon could provide insights on ways to reduce gang violence, promote social cohesion and enhance ubuntu. Ubuntu for South Africans mean, ‘I am because you are’ a philosophy of interconnectedness, community and compassion, which could bring the realization that the loss of life, which terrifies communities in recent years, is not the solution but an impediment to their humanity.

Authors:
Gloria Sauti, University of South Africa, South Africa

About the Presenter(s)
Dr Gloria Sauti is a Senior Lecturer at the department of Anthropology & Archeology at the University of South Africa (Unisa). The teaches undergraduate and graduate students and supervises Masters and Doctoral Students.

Connect on Linkedin
https://www.linkedin.com/in/gloria-sauti-186a037

See this presentation on the full schedule – Sunday Schedule

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