The Lekwa Local Municipality officially launched the Lekwa Men’s Forum on January 27, in an effort to create a safe and inclusive space for local men to engage on social, community and economic issues.

According to Lubabalo Majenge, spokesperson for the Lekwa Local Municipality, this forum was launched by the MMC for Community Services and Safety, Mapaseka Molaba.

The first launch took place in the Ward 5 Social Centre.

“The establishment of the men’s forum aims to provide a platform where men can openly discuss challenges affecting them and their communities, promote positive masculinity, encourage social cohesion and contribute meaningfully to community development initiatives,” explained Majenge.

This initiative also seeks to address gender based violence and substance abuse issues.

“The Men’s Forum is a critical intervention that allows men to support one another, take responsibility within their families and communities and become active partners in building a safer and more caring society,” said Molaba.

She further stated that through dialogue and collective action, the challenges faced by men can be addressed while promoting values of respect and unity.

The second launch of the forum took place in Ward 7 on January 31 and resumed on February 3 in Ward 9.