I am twelve years old
my AK¹ rifle too heavy to carry
in the bushes where I fight
for the war lords of Renamo
against Frelimo in the
Tête province of Mozambique!
They dragged me away from my kraal²
my parents stood silent without tears
to let go... or be killed.
I serve the militia in
battle and entertainment
and sex with women and men
with lots of beer and...
now and then a plate of food
an innocent child!
I lay landmines around the fields
cut off women’s’ breasts
and shoot children in the head
while I become a man
South Africa! South Africa
your milk and honey calls
while I vomit on the war lords
and their loathsome muck...
I flee to your breasts of milk!
Please boss I seek a peace job³
to buy grub ... to survive
here where I stand on the
corner of the street
day in and day out!
Thank you boss for work and food
to write and speak your language...
today I am a man
without a rifle
and filled with pride!
1. AK: AK47 7,62mm assault rifle of Russian origin.
2. Kraal: African word for a complex of huts.
3. Peace job: African word for temporary work.
*He changed his name and works now as a machine operator for a garden services in Centurion, South Africa. The UN are doing their best to stop the misuse of children as soldiers. See the following Web page for more information: www.childsoldiersglobalreport.org.
In South Africa today security plays a vital part in any business or private home. This book and the volumes to follow, will guide you step by step through the essential precautionary measures to be taken in protecting your family and valuables. From employing security guards, evacuation of your site and security measures to burglar bars and alarms in your private home.
a Book compiled by me from experience gained after 10 years in the security industry as Industrial relations officer with Nosa qualifications, 1st Aid, fire protection and also S.O.B. grade A.
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