uThukela District Municipality launched the District Men’s Parliament on Friday, August 23, during an event held in Council Chambers. District Mayor Siphiwe Mazibuko and Dr Mbulelo Dyasi from SANAC Men’s Sector were part of the event, whereby men were championing change in HIV prevention and gender-based violence (GBV), among other things.
This engagement was held to heighten the awareness of preventable health problems, including cancer and HIV, and to encourage early detection and treatment among men.
During the dialogues that were held, the stakeholders – which included the KZN Men’s Sector, UNPA, Takuwani Riime and SANAC Men’s Sector – tried to develop a plan of action to eradicate GBV in communities.
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The focus was on the elimination of social ills and it was said that one shouldn’t wait until gender-based violence knocks on your family’s door before realising that men need to take a responsive stance to prevent the scourge of violence. Men were also encouraged to undergo tests for HIV.
Eating healthy food, exercising regularly and drinking less was encouraged in order to live a long, healthy life.
In his keynote address, Mayor Mazibuko thanked the community and all stakeholders, reminding men that real men don’t abuse women. He further encouraged men to remember their role as protectors in their households and to be active participants in the fight to eradicate violence against women and children.
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