Men are urged to break silence on wellness challenges at meeting in Leandra

Men and boys from Leandra and surrounding areas have been encouraged to break the silence around emotional struggles, unemployment, financial pressures and other challenges affecting their wellbeing.

The call was made during the Gert Sibande District Municipality’s District Men’s Overall Wellness Engagement, held in collaboration with Govan Mbeki Municipality and other stakeholders at Difa Nkosi Hall in Leandra on September 15.

Held under the theme “Hear Our Cry”, the engagement provided a platform for men and boys to openly discuss challenges affecting their physical, emotional, social and economic well-being.

The programme formed part of the District Men’s Overall Wellness Programme and the broader “Better Men 4 Tomorrow” campaign, which promotes the message: “Strong Men. Strong Communities. Strong District.”

Gert Sibande District Municipality Speaker Busisiwe Sekhonde led the engagement, while the chairperson of the Gert Sibande Men’s Sector, Bishop Welcome Mkhonza, outlined the day’s purpose.

Mkhonza highlighted unemployment, financial difficulties, changing household roles, and the emotional impact of being unable to provide for their families as some of the pressures men face.

He stressed the importance of creating safe spaces where men can speak openly about their experiences, seek support and work together to identify solutions to challenges affecting their wellbeing.

Sekhonde also reflected on the social and economic challenges confronting men and boys, including unemployment, health concerns, emotional abuse and societal expectations that can discourage men from expressing vulnerability or seeking assistance.

She challenged the long-standing belief that “Indoda ayikhali” (a man does not cry), saying such beliefs can contribute to men suffering in silence.

Sekhonde further emphasised that abuse is not limited to physical violence, but can also be emotional, and called for greater attention to the experiences of men and boys.

“I encourage men to recognise the influence they have within their families and communities, particularly in shaping the behaviour and values of young boys.

“I call on men to become positive role models and actively participate in initiatives aimed at bringing about positive social change,” said Sekhonde.

The programme addressed a range of issues, including mental health awareness, physical wellness, economic empowerment, unemployment, traditional gender norms and masculinity, gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF), family relationships and social responsibility.

Participants also received information on support services available to men. They took part in dialogue sessions where they shared personal experiences and discussed practical ways of dealing with challenges in their daily lives.

Particular attention was given to preventing violence and the loss of life, strengthening family relationships, promoting responsible behaviour and encouraging men to seek assistance when facing difficulties.

The Govan Mbeki Municipality speaker, Fikile Magagamela, said continued dialogue and collaboration were important to ensure men and boys have access to support and are empowered to play a positive role in their families and communities.