​The Gauteng Department of Social Development, in partnership with TLB Boxing, hosted the International Day of the Boy Child at the Kagiso Recreation and Memorial Centre in the West Rand. This year's theme was "Nourishing the Boy Child in a Changing World."
The event featured a boxing ring where junior boxers from Kagiso Boxing Club and nearby areas competed. Young traditional dancers from the local hostel also performed, adding a cultural touch to the festivities.
Veli Shongwe, Coordinator for the Boy Child Programme, expressed his happiness with the turnout. "We are committed to ensuring that every boy leaves with beautiful memories. We want them to see life differently and feel equally treated," said Shongwe.
The Boy Child Programme addresses challenges such as gangsterism, bullying, crime, and substance abuse.
Statistics from Stats SA highlight the importance of father figures in a boy's life, noting that boys without them face higher risks of emotional and behavioural issues, substance abuse, and legal troubles.
Aviwe Sontekwa, a boxer from Kagiso, shared his pride in participating. "It feels good to be around boys from different backgrounds. We hope to see this event return to Kagiso next year, and we want to see the President of the country," he said.
Boxing trainer Lungi Nkuli thanked the Department for bringing the boys together. "The children learned from each other and interacted on various issues. We look forward to seeing them again next year," he concluded.
A seven-year-old traditional dancer from Ekurhuleni hostel highlighted the sense of safety and warmth of the company of boys he felt at the event, underscoring its positive impact on young boys' lives.