When Indoda Wednesday was first introduced in Alexandra, it immediately resonated with many men who felt they needed a safe space to discuss their challenges.

It became a crucial platform where men not only spoke but also confronted some of the country’s most pressing social issues, such as gender-based violence, substance abuse, and the spread of HIV/AIDS.

In sessions now held across multiple wards in Region E, men meet to promote responsibility and hold each other accountable.

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While the initiative has been impactful, it quickly became clear to some men that for them to be holistically empowered, they need to create opportunities to earn a living.

That is why when a group of men gathered along Thoko Mangena Street on April 22, it was not only to celebrate the expansion of Indoda Wednesday but also to discuss ways to rise above unemployment and create opportunities for themselves.

Indoda Wednesday’s Sibusiso Shongwe explained that the best method of empowerment they chose to pursue is permaculture agriculture.

“We want to go to schools and use the gardens there, as well as spaces within the community. The guys don’t mind volunteering at first until we find support along the way,” Shongwe said.

The men resolved not to wait for help but to begin working, even without pay.

“The main goal is for men to be empowered. We don’t want men to only come to Indoda Wednesday to talk. We want them to be empowered. Maybe a stipend will find us along the way while we are volunteering,” Shongwe added.

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Sithembiso Maake, a representative of the Men’s Forum in the region, said they also plan to conduct workshops with stakeholders to equip men with the information and skills needed to break into the agricultural sector.

“The skills passed on to men will sustain them and make them efficient enough to feed themselves,” Maake explained.

Although they are not yet where they want to be, Maake emphasised that progress is being made step by step.

“The main aim is to mobilise men so they can ensure food security. We know things are expensive these days. At least if men plant vegetables, they will have the chance to harvest them.”

While the move into agriculture is primarily meant to empower men, Maake acknowledged its ripple effects, noting that it will increase food security, ensuring that learners have access to nutritious school garden produce, and helping to eradicate hunger in the community.

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