Lawrence Mashabela
​As part of Women's Month activities, the Gauteng Department of Social Development's statutory unit in the Southern Corridor, in partnership with Non-Profit Organizations, hosted a critical men's dialogue at JC Koetze Hall in Sebokeng last Friday, 16 August 2024.. 
This event aimed to create a platform for men to discuss critical issues including masculinity, gender equality, and gender-based violence (GBV) and femicide.
Sidney Madibo from Father a Nation, the lead facilitator of the dialogue, emphasized the vital role men play in combating GBV and supporting gender equality. He highlighted several key actions men can take in promoting gender equality, educating themselves and others about the root causes and impacts of GBV, challenging harmful behaviours and attitudes, supporting victims, holding perpetrators accountable, and engaging in dialogue and awareness-raising activities.
Madibo praised the men who are already working against violence perpetrated against women and children. He stressed the importance of teaching young boys to become positive members of society, noting that no amount of power or aggression toward women can define a man's worth. "We understand that men face many pressures, but taking out frustrations on women is never justified," he said. Madibo encouraged men to openly discuss their challenges to receive support and to recognize that changing harmful stereotypes and practices is essential for progress.
The dialogue revealed that many men view unemployment as a significant source of frustration but also acknowledged that men are often the perpetrators of GBV. They emphasized the need for men to introspect and change their attitudes towards women and girls in all aspects of life―whether as partners, fathers, colleagues, or friends.
 Malehlohonolo Mohalenyane, a Statutory Social Worker in the Gauteng Department of Social Development, highlighted the department's commitment to promoting positive masculinity and preventing abuse through ongoing engagement and awareness programs.