Indoda Wednesday dialogue focuses on men’s health and substance abuse

The recent Indoda Wednesday dialogue united men in Alex to address critical issues affecting them. The event, held at EMS Be Safe Centre on May 28, gave men a platform to discuss men’s health and substance abuse.

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FAN Champions for Change manager Charles Mphephu emphasised the importance of the dialogue. He noted that it aligned with the broader mission of the Men’s Parliament to roll out Indoda Wednesday dialogue initiatives across Johannesburg, giving men a platform to talk about the challenges they are battling with.

“Today, the focus is on men’s health and substance abuse. We had people from Health for Men and South African National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence raising awareness about [the use of] hubbly bubbly,” Mphephu said. The event highlighted the alarming rise of substance abuse in Alexandra, with men actively engaging in discussions, asking questions, and seeking guidance on where to find help. Mphephu noted that this marked a step toward addressing the crisis, particularly among young people.

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Mphephu also stressed the influential role men played in their families and communities. “Men are the leaders of the family. They should start to realign themselves in society. Young people see how men behave and copy them. If you look around Alexandra, the issue of substance abuse is too high.” He attributed part of the problem to a lack of awareness, noting that educating men about the dangers of substance abuse would solve the problem. “Some [abuse substances] saying they want to ease the stress of unemployment.”.

“Here, men can open up and say, ‘I was in that struggle with substance abuse, but I have changed because I see this is not the way to go.’ If we can have so many champions who share their struggles with young people, I think that will help.”

Reflecting on the men’s turnout, Mphephu said the event exceeded expectations, with 50 men attending, more than the anticipated 30. He added that this could be attributed to the outreach campaigns they embarked on leading up to the Indoda Wednesday dialogue.

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