Fighting gender-based violence in Nyanga

Nyanga Men Empowerment, non-profit organisation has made a call for 'real men' to take the lead in the battle against crime.

The organisation hosted a men’s dialogue at the Lusaka community hall on Thursday, September 18,  aimed at promoting a safe environment for women, men, and children.

Co-founder of the organisation, Xolani Feni emphasised the importance of this initiative, introducing the "Real Men" programme, which targets men in surrounding townships.

He said the purpose of the dialogue was to speak to men “man to man” on all sorts of violence by men. He said the role of every man was to work with his peers in fighting for and preserving the dignity of women while they are still young.

Mr Feni called on men to stand together and support one another as it was before.

“We gathered here to say enough is enough. We speak as men who are always accused of ill things. But the truth is, the fight against crimes like gender-based violence and others should start at home. It is with us and men to teach our young boys how women should be treated, said Mr Feni, adding that they also try to create awareness and educate on the issue of child neglect.

Mr Feni's organisation has different programmes where it provides basic counselling and equips men and victims of crime.

"Our approach has been clear. We aim to prevent domestic violence and rape and to minimise the risk of crimes. We cannot live as if all is normal. We have discovered serious cases of emotional, physical and sexual abuse in our areas caused by men and that of men being abused by women, which are not immediately reported. The challenge is that men are scared to report abuse, and they turn animals after that,” he said, adding that people in rural areas do not know where to report these cases.

Gender-based violence ambassador Neliswa NKomombini applauded the organisation for coming to their rescue.

She said it was rare to have such gatherings where men are allowed to talk about their challenges. 

“The event was to say ‘not in our name.’ Let us stop and fight against gender-based violence, help men rediscover their value and revive their dignity and help prevent and eliminate the stigma of men being labelled as perpetrators. We need to change our way of thinking. We have to be men of this new era and change our ways so that the next generation acts on protecting women and children.”

Representatives from various departments, including social development, Amaqhawe Olutsha, the health department, police, Community Policing Forum, National Youth Development Agency, and women were there to give messages of support.

Nyanga police, social crime member Constable Mpengesi, also praised the men of Nyanga for coming together for a good purpose. Constable Mpengesi said it was the responsibility of every man to protect the family and the community at large. He said every man should play the role of being a true citizen of the country. 

A social worker, Thandiwe Booi said such gatherings should also include young boys. Ms Booi said boys should be educated as early as possible. She also urged parents to report the boys if they misbehave.

“We need to teach them as early as possible. By this, we are also trying to fight the issue of drugs, which are a contributing factor in the area.” 

The organisation's Malusi Xego said the engagement included a lengthy discussion on the prevalent human rights violation that is gender-based violence. He said the organisation will organise more events of this nature to empower everybody.