Men encouraged seek help
Male employees of the DCSSL attended the men’s indaba to discuss issues affecting them.
The Mpumalanga Department of Community Safety, Security and Liaison (DCSSL) has urged men to seek help and challenge the stigma surrounding vulnerability. The department hosted its annual Men’s Indaba at Nutting House, aimed at engaging its male employees.
The indaba served as a lead-up to International Men’s Day on November 19, which is commemorated every year to raise awareness of the many issues affecting modern men.
The conference provided a platform for discussion and deliberations on important issues. The department said it hoped the indaba would promote positive change and empowerment among its male employees.
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The gathering was attended by experts from various state institutions and the private sector, sharing information on a variety of topics.
Employees were addressed by experts in financial management, mental health and depression, maintenance, management of wills and estates, and gender-based violence and femicide.
Gloria Mazibuko, head of the DCSSL, addressing the crowd, emphasised the importance of leading by example, instilling discipline, and being recognised for their contributions.
“As men, you are entrusted with the roles of protector, provider and leader in your families and society. We must acknowledge men by celebrating their existence and appreciating the little things they do,” Mazibuko said.
“Sometimes they are pushed too hard. At the same time, they should act as positive role models, balancing responsibility with empathy.”
She encouraged men to prioritise their health and speak out about mental health issues. She also highlighted that there was a need to urgently address the secondary victimisation faced by them when seeking help as victims of abuse.
