Limpopo Men’s Parliament to tackle Gender Based Violence and Femicide

Limpopo

The Premier of Limpopo Stanley Mathabatha said the Limpopo Provincial Government’s goal is to unite individuals from diverse backgrounds and walks of life, strengthening the capacity and coordination of the men’s civil society movement in the country’s response to the health and social challenges faced by the communities.

Mathabatha said during the Limpopo Men’s Parliament, held at Bolivia Lodge in Polokwane on Thursday 9 November 2023.

The sitting, organised by the Limpopo Legislature, brought together young boys and men from various sectors across the province to discuss and address the pressing issues affecting society, particularly gender-based violence and femicide.

Mathabatha stressed the need for decisive action to combat gender-based violence and femicide, making it impossible for perpetrators to live, work and socialise among society.

The premier called for the nurturing of young men and women who view each other as equals and partners in development and growth.

During the conference, various social challenges were discussed, including toxic masculinity, patriarchy, mental illness, the socialisation of the boy child, gender-based violence, harmful cultural norms, safe spaces for men, and the alignment of programmes targeting young women and girls with those aimed at young men and boys.

Jonas Mathebula, from the Department of Public Service and Administration, reminded all who were present that they are the spokespersons and decision makers to their families, therefore urged them that they should know their role in the society and act responsibly.

Mathebula furthered urged men to play a leading role in fighting HIV/AIDS, substance and alcohol abuse also cautioning against relying on the status of the partners instead of testing for HIV/AIDS.

Taking cue from Mathebula, Petrus Madumo, from South African Council of Churches, advised men to try by all means to combat the spread of HIV/AIDS, urging them to change their mind set by refraining from taking advantage of vulnerabilities of young girls through material inducement by inviting them to dinners and lunch with a wrong intention of sleeping with them.

In conclusion, Premier Mathabatha called for the strengthening of the men’s civil society movement, grassroots activism, and engagement in local communities.

“By collaborating with Takuwani Riime, the government aims to address challenges faced by men and young boys and intensify the pursuit of the men’s movement,” he said.

 

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