The Indoda Wednesday men’s dialogue initiative has broken new ground in Region E, expanding into multiple wards and establishing formal committee structures that signal its transformation from a grassroots conversation platform into a structured community movement.

Three Alexandra-based representatives of Region E, Sibusiso Shongwe, Sithembiso Maake, and Patrick Ngidi, delivered a compelling progress report before the Men’s Parliament at the Constance Connie Bapela Council Chamber on April 15, highlighting the programme’s growing resonance among men and boys in Alexandra.

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

Shongwe said the initiative was designed to improve the mental health and overall well-being of men and boys by creating safe spaces for dialogue, emotional support, and healing. Since its inception, the initiative has steadily gained traction. This, according to Shongwe, shows their commitment to ensuring that Indoda Wednesday is launched in every ward.

“We have created a safe space for men to come through and be vulnerable because we have seen that men really need to express themselves. Every Wednesday we have sittings in the majority of wards,” he said.

The initiative has now expanded into several wards, including 105, 75, 76, 71, and 81. Shongwe noted that the establishment of formal committee structures in wards 105 and 81 reflects both organisational growth and consistency.

Maake, on the other hand, while celebrating progress, also confronted the pressing issue of unemployment. He emphasised that while dialogue was crucial, implementation was equally important. “At Indoda Wednesday, we need to have implementation and not the mentality of handouts,” he said.

Recognising the barriers faced by men with criminal records and limited job opportunities, Maake said they have identified agriculture as a practical solution. He stressed that men needed to occupy garden spaces, particularly at schools, to contribute to children’s nutrition while fostering productivity. His appeal to Speaker of Council Margaret Arnolds included a call for engagement with the Department of Agriculture to equip men with tools and resources.

Also read: Indoda Dialogue gives Alex men platform to speak freely

Ngidi also pointed to the growing culture in Alexandra of people taking advantage of fallow land for agriculture. He said that through engagement with relevant stakeholders, they were going to be given fertilisers and seeds to plant and empower people to provide for themselves.

Furthermore, Ngidi reported on collaborative efforts with social workers from the Department of Social Development. He said they have identified 16 young people who have been placed in a security training programme, receiving stipends and the prospect of employment.

He stressed that Indoda Wednesday was not merely a talk shop but a serious initiative that not only focused on men’s issues but also raised awareness in communities about opportunities.

Follow us on our Whatsapp channel, Facebook, X, Instagram and TikTok for the latest updates and inspiration!