Men and Boys Dialogue in Ditsobotla Local Municipality.
Violence against women, children, and femicide is a devastating reality that affects countless lives worldwide.
As part of this year’s 16 days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children campaign , with the theme “Your Action Today can end Gender Based Violence and Femicide”.
Crime Prevention Partnerships Directorate in collaboration with key stakeholders gathered boys and men under one roof to have a powerful and insightful dialogue at Verdwaal village near Itsoseng Township.
The dialogue’s purpose was to urge them to critically reflect on issues such as:
* What can we do to end GBV&F?
* Fatherhood and good parenting.
* Moral Regeneration (behavior, Culture, etc)
* Men’s physical and Mental health
* Empowerment through self employment opportunities.
Men and Boys within the community were encouraged to not only be part of this discussion but take actionable steps towards ending GBV&F.
“If you want to be treated with respect you must also show respect to others , it is important to remember that GBV&F oftentimes begin from childhood. Men should remember that all are equal within the law.” said Captain Mogorosi from SAPS.
Verdwaal was identified as a hotspot for GBV&F due to the increase of reported GBVF cases. Recent cases include the tragic death of a 15 year old girl in the hands of her boyfriend and an incident where a woman was brutally raped and murdered by her partner. These incidents have prompted an urgent intervention by both the community and government.
Mr. Tlhabane Mmolusi, From Men for Real Organization (NGO) invited all men to join the initiative and encouraged the attendees to have open conversations about issues and challenges they face.
He highlighted that mental health and Substance abuse are the key factors that contributes and lead to GBVF.
During the dialogue, men and boys pledged to speak up and be more vocal about their mental health issues and they should always seek for support when needed.
They further committed to take responsibility for their actions and make Verdwaal a safer community going forward.
The attendees were pleaded to do a 365 days free of Violence Against Woman, Children and vulnerable groups.
They were reminded that every small action counts, and collective efforts can lead to significant positive change.
Stakeholders who gracefully attended the dialogue were Men for Real Organization , South African Police Service (SAPS), Thusanang Trauma Centre, Department of Social Development, Department of Health, Department of Correctional Services, Ditsobotla Taxi Association, Department of Justice, Ditsobotla Brentwood Jazz Club, National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), Itsoseng Community Policing Forum.
