Turf wars among Bulawayo's street kids highlight struggle for survival

As the sun dips below the horizon in Bulawayo, known as the City of Kings and Queens, the city's lively streets transform into tense battlegrounds. Once places of laughter and connection, the pavements in the heart of the city have become arenas for territorial disputes among street children, a growing issue that has left many concerned.

On the surface, these conflicts may seem to be about space, but for the children involved, they are about much more - survival, identity, and a desperate need for belonging.

"I used to play with my friends here. Now, it's not safe. We can't even sit down without worrying about being chased away," says Khumbulani Dube, a young man who recently returned to the streets after failing to establish a life away from them. Pointing to a corner on 9th Avenue, he explains how these turf wars revolve around access to basic necessities such as food and shelter.

The disputes, often involving children as young as 14, escalate quickly and sometimes end in physical confrontations or injuries. Parks, alleyways, and street corners - once safe havens for daytime camaraderie - become fraught with tension as dusk falls.

"These kids are just trying to find their place in a world that has largely forgotten them," says a local woman who provides food and clothing to street children. "When they fight over territory, it's not just about the space - it's about survival and the need to feel like they belong somewhere."

Many of these children are on the streets due to unstable home lives or neglect. For them, claiming a corner of the street offers a semblance of control and refuge in an otherwise chaotic existence. However, this same drive to belong fuels rivalry between groups, leading to violent clashes.

In response to the growing crisis, community organisations and caring individuals have been stepping in to mediate the situation. Initiatives focused on conflict resolution, team-building activities, and providing safe spaces aim to redirect the children's energy toward more constructive pursuits.

"The streets at night are often ruled by gangs. We need to create alternatives and show these kids that they can find strength in unity, not division," says one woman actively involved in helping the children.

Still, breaking the cycle of loyalty to their street groups is a significant challenge. Many children see their friends as family and view any intervention as a threat to those bonds.

Local businesses are also playing a role, with some sponsoring safe spaces for the children to gather, play, and learn without fear of confrontation. Mentorship programmes are emerging as a way to offer these children guidance and role models who can inspire them to dream beyond the streets.

The rising tensions have not gone unnoticed by local shop owners and residents. A fast-food outlet manager recounts how children who once peacefully purchased food now appear wary and guarded, reflecting the fear that has taken root in their lives.

"This fighting is heartbreaking. These kids are just trying to get by, but it's getting worse," the manager laments.

Some businesses have even called on authorities to intervene and remove the children from the streets, citing the impact of the disputes on their properties and operations.

Despite the challenges, glimmers of hope remain. Some of the children have shown remarkable resilience, starting small business ventures to sustain themselves. These acts of independence highlight their potential and desire to break free from the cycle of poverty and violence.

"They are not just victims; they are survivors," says one community member. "Each of these kids has a story, dreams, and the potential to achieve great things if given the right support."

As Bulawayo grapples with this complex issue, it is clear that the solution will require compassion, understanding, and collective effort. With the support of the community, these children may yet find a way to not only survive but thrive - together, rather than in conflict.