Gender imbalances in society need to be addressed

A programme to promote a healthy socio-economic fibre between men and women while addressing gender imbalances in our communities was hosted in Norwood.

The event at Paterson Park Multipurpose Centre on April 20 was courtesy of City of Johannesburg Chair of Chairs councillor Colleen Makhubele. Ward 73 councillor Eleanor Huggett, Norwood Young Stars Football Club founder Venita Masisi and Khaume Security founder Simon Ramara were in attendance.

The event, titled Men of Influence: Celebrating Men’s Contribution to Society, is an oversight programme that focuses on: creating awareness and engaging on practical solutions to eradicate gender-based violence, drug recovery, food security, highlighting male role models, men’s spirituality and improving gender relations.

Makhubele said, “Today, let’s harness positive aspects of men in our society in a manner that will bring healing and show a way forward. Our men are not so confident in what they have to offer in the workplace, marriage and homes. There was a time when the role of a man was clear in society but now with technological advancement, women can access whatever else was limited to men.

“Does the financial and emotional security of women give them the right to dispose them [men] of their role? Today’s session will not answer all the questions but will help us see if there are legislations to empower men and protect the boy child.”

Panel discussion speaker Charley Pietersen said men’s mistakes don’t define them. “Men, it’s okay to cry, it’s okay to be vulnerable, it’s okay not to be okay and talk about your feelings. You need support and you need to be told you are loved.”

Enrique Bhana teaches young boys to step up and said he doesn’t just train them in football but teaches them life skills too. He put forward a challenge to men to stand up and come up with creative ways to tackle issues.

Bongani Ngomane said men and boys are also victims of gender-based violence – this includes harmful traditional practices such as boys being initiated into ‘manhood’ in the mountain, followed by reports of deaths. He also highlighted the political abuse of men, for instance in war-torn countries where there are child soldiers and most men who didn’t even volunteer to participate in the war.

Ngomane proposed a few solutions, “We need to review the school curriculum and focus on peace studies. Mass media also needs to come to the fore and produce less violent shows for viewership. We also have Men’s Voice magazine to influence positive direction.”

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