GBV in the spotlight: Seminar attendees take a stand
The message at a recent GBV awareness event was that the absence of positive male and fatherly role models plays a critical role in how boys are raised, and that strong, present male figures are essential in shaping men who can contribute positively to society.
A gender-based violence (GBV) awareness event was recently hosted at Paul Kruger Hall in Krugersdorp West, drawing around 150 attendees.
• Also read: Police takes GBV seriously with revamped Victim Empowerment Programme
The event educated and empowered attendees in the fight against GBV and was attended by representatives from the Department of Justice, along with various stakeholders and activists who are passionate about ending violence and promoting justice.
Among the speakers were former Mogale City executive mayor, Tyrone Gray, pastor Mike van Rooyen from the Heart and Soul Foundation and other DA members.
According to the organiser of the event, Gillian Jacobs, it was inspired by a tabled motion that was approved in council to convert the mayoral mansion into a safe haven for women and children back in 2022 by Tyrone. Gillian added that they raised awareness for those plans to be reinstated. The Krugersdorp News reported in August last year that the mansion was a subject of controversy due to its derelict state of disuse.
Tyrone elaborated that fathers need to make an effort to be in the home, as a lack of positive male and fatherly figures is essential in raising men who can be valuable in society. He provided statistics from Statistics South Africa and Human Sciences Research Council, that fatherlessness serves negative consequences for many communities in South Africa.
“In South Africa, fatherlessness has negative consequences, impacting children’s well-being and contributing to various social and economic issues.
Studies show that children without a consistent father present are more likely to experience poverty, poor educational outcomes, and mental health challenges, leading to increased risk-taking behaviors and social isolation.
“In South Africa, the number of children who experience absent fatherhood is over 60% not living with their biological fathers and 20% having limited contact,” Tyrone said.
Pastor Mike shared that GBV is an issue that is rife in the community and that the event is important because it is not only to raise awareness, but it also aims to provide solutions.
Among other programmes that took place at the workshop was a self-defence seminar teaching women how to be more aware of their environment and to be vigilant. The programme highlighted the importance of the role men have to play to ensure that young men and boys prevent GBV.
