\u201cWe need to speak out against gender-based violence.\u201d<\/p>\n
These were the firm words of Prince Rulashe, event coordinator, ahead of the first #MensDialogue held at the Germiston Civic Centre, last Saturday.<\/p>
\u201cWe want to speak out against femicide, which is a crisis in our country because the only way the problem will stop is if we stop it,\u201d said Rulashe.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt is with this in mind that the City of Ekurhuleni and Mngulashe Holdings decided to host the first #MensDialogue, with the theme, Be the Man.<\/p>
\u201cWe need more men to step up and be the man and be good role models to other men within their communities and society.\u201d<\/p>\n
A number of guest speakers were invited to join the day\u2019s discussions and to share their words of wisdom.<\/p>\n
Guest speakers included Dr Bhekisisa Ngcobo, a musician who performs under the name Ihashi Elimhlophe; Gogo Aubrey Matshiqi, a political analyst; Siyabonga Khumalo, an actor on the popular series Muvhango; Kenny Kunene, a former prisoner and now businessman; Themba Lukhele, a motivational speaker and Jabu Mahlangu, a former Kaizer Chiefs FC and Supersport United FC player.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe event offered the opportunity for men to give advice to other men,\u201d said Rulashe.<\/p>\n
\u201cMarried men can pass on their knowledge and advice to unmarried men, fathers can pass on their advice to those about to become fathers.<\/p>\n
\u201cBecause the issue of gender-based violence affects young children too as young men are being raised by abusive fathers, and we need to break the cycle.\u201d<\/p>\n