The discourse on gender-based violence often shies away from discussing ego among men as a one of the key causes.
This was said by the secretary of the Alexandra Community Police Forum, Joseph Munyai at their newly opened container offices at the Alexandra Police Station.
“Men’s ego is badly dented when they lose jobs and income and they become temperamental towards their dependents when asked for care and support,” Munyai said. He also extended the blame to men who after spending money at illegal taverns associated with vice and other illicit things, returned home and lashed out at their wives who had not prepared food for them.
“They [men] return at odd hours to abuse their partners in crammed dwellings without privacy and in the presence of children.” He said youngsters grew up witnessing rape and gender-based violence. “They later adopt sexually suggestive and violent conduct towards women as normal behaviour.”
Munyai also urged residents to be more involved in the police forum to contribute to its work on ending the scourge. He commended those who helped the forum and police in the recent arrest and prosecution of 13 criminals charged with among others, robbery, violence and murder. “They [community] identified their hideouts and some of the criminals were found to have come from elsewhere to commit the offences in Alex.” Warning those who escape the dragnet and would-be criminals, Munyai said, “Residents through the forum want to reclaim their streets and live in peace and harmony and the cops are closing in on you.”
He urged for government departments’ involvement saying the Joburg Roads Agency should ensure potholes are fixed and streets marked to enable the police easy and quick access to crime scenes, City Power to illuminate hiding spots of criminals, and the Department of Housing to ensure homes are constructed properly and safe. “An improved environment with guaranteed security will encourage investors to the township, city and country, and create jobs and reduce idleness which causes crime.”
Munyai commended NPOs which work to reduce gender-based violence and the Department of Public Safety for hosting a recent awareness campaign on the scourge. “We will dent the scourge decisively through collaboration.”
He requested local businesses to assist the forum with computers, furniture and stipends for the staff volunteers. “The Department of Safety only supports the office with running costs.”
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