Men’s Forum Officially Launched in Matatiele
More than 50 men from different wards gathered at the Civic Centre in Ward 01 for the official launch of the Matatiele Men’s Forum, an initiative aimed at strengthening men’s involvement in addressing Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF) and promoting responsible masculinity within communities.
The launch was hosted by the Department of Social Development in collaboration with Matatiele Local Municipality, in the presence of various stakeholders, bringing together men committed to becoming active participants in the fight against GBVF and other social challenges affecting families and communities.
Matatiele has been significantly affected by incidents of gender-based violence and femicide, which have caused immense pain to individuals and families while also negatively affecting the reputation of the town. The establishment of the Men’s Forum provides an important platform for men to engage openly on GBVF, accountability, healthy relationships, family values and the role of men in creating safer communities.
The forum seeks to encourage men to move beyond conversations and take meaningful action by challenging harmful behaviours, supporting victims and survivors, promoting respect and dignity, and becoming positive role models in their communities.
