Tsakani – The Simunye Men’s Club concluded Women’s Month on a high note on August 31 by hosting a health awareness event under the theme of ‘Celebrating 30 years of democracy towards women’s development’.
The event started with a 10km victory walk from the Ext 11 library to Ext 13 soccer ground where they further did aerobics as part of the programme’s fitness activity.
“The aim of the event was to show the community that there are men willing to protect, care, and advocate for women.
“As the Men’s Club, we wanted to introduce ourselves to community members positively. The aim was to celebrate women and show them there are men who want to help them fight against social ills such as GBV,” said Simunye Men’s Club chairperson Sidney Mbatha.
He added part of the aim was to show other men there is room for change, citing involving men in the prevention, care and support of those affected by social ills is one way of bringing change.
He further cited engaging men in giving care brings them face to face with the realities and issues faced by women and puts pressure on the need for change.
“We had to show the community that Simunye is against women and children abuse and we are always willing to help individuals and families exposed to any kind of abuse.
“From now on, we will be the eyes and ears of the community and will promote the good in men,” he added.
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The day wrapped up with a soccer match between the Simunye Men’s Club and Tsakane Women Survivors. The game ended with a 2-1 win for the men’s club.
The women’s team captain Ntombi Ntuli said they felt included and celebrated by the club on the last day of Women’s Month, saying they are thankful to have received an invitation from the club.
“We truly enjoyed our day, even though they won the game but we did not make it an easy achievement for them. I am sure they felt as if they were playing against their own gender because we gave them a tough time; we showcased our skills.
“In everything, we appreciate having this opportunity. We hope they will invite us again for another game soon,” she said.
Club member and soccer coach Thabang Mashiyane said the game was in good spirit saying the women’s team was determined to beat them.
“They train every day and that alone is encouraging for us. The fact that they scored the first goal clearly shows we were in hot water.
“We are happy there were neither injuries nor conflicts. It was a productive and enjoyable game,” said Mashiyane.
The event also made children feel incorporated through a play area with jumping castles.
