Men in Nyanga pledge to combat gender-based violence and redefine masculinity

Men in Nyanga have pledged to fight the countrywide scourge of gender-based violence (GBV) and to become better versions of themselves at home and in their communities.

This commitment was made during Etafeni Day Care Centre Trust’s annual Men’s Dialogue, held at its premises under the theme “Redefining Manhood from Violence to Values.”

The pledge was led by Etafeni director Nontombi Buthelezi at the conclusion of the Imbizo, with 100 men formally committing themselves to uphold positive values and reject all forms of violence. Ms Buthelezi said that the purpose of the pledge was to ensure that the men remain true to their commitment and accountable for their actions.

“The whole idea behind these Men’s Dialogues is to put a stop to violence where men kill other men, where men abuse women and children, and to promote positive masculinity while creating safe spaces in Nyanga and surrounding areas,” she said.

“The fact that these men are here shows that they are fathers who want development and care deeply for their families. Today is a significant day for us. We want them to move away from violence and help make Nyanga a safe space for everyone,” she said.

During the dialogue, participants openly discussed the challenges that trouble them daily and worked together to find solutions. Guest speaker Reverend Mawande Lugongolo from the Lugongolo Foundation urged men to stop seeking validation through harmful behaviour and social pressure. He warned that social media is placing unhealthy expectations on men.

“Men are trapped by the pressure to appear relevant. They want to conform, and this often leads them into risky behaviour,” he said.

He further cautioned that dishonesty in relationships, especially around finances, often leads to conflict.

“If you have no money, be honest with your partner. Say you cannot afford certain things. We need to work and develop skills to live better lives. We should not allow ourselves to be degraded. All we truly need is decent work,” he added.

Reverend Lugongolo emphasised that the pledge reinforces the importance of ethical behaviour, fairness, responsibility, and pride among men. Solethu Nobhala from Amandla praised the organisers and described the dialogue as the beginning of positive change. He urged men to continue learning and to control their anger.

“As men, we must always learn and unlearn. We live in a modern world with equal rights. This is no longer a society where women must be silent. Men must also cook, clean, and take responsibility at home,” he said.

At the end of the programme, all participants received certificates for taking part in the dialogue. The non-profit also selected five men who will receive training in the security industry, offering them an opportunity for skills development and employment.