Rays of Hope recently hosted a GBV event for boys and men
ALEXANDRA – The event also touched on the surprisingly high rate of teenage pregnancy that has emerged since lockdown.
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Non-profit organisation Rays of Hope hosted a discussion to talk to men about gender-based violence and femicide, and statutory rape in Alexandra on August 19 in an effort to raise awareness about these issues.
Speakers of a number of different organisations talked about their fight against gender-based violence. Some of the organisations represented were Adapt, Alex Men’s Forum, Girls and Boys Club, and Members and Citizens Movement.
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Rays of Hope gender-based violence coordinator Nhlanhla Mchunu said, “As the country combats this social ill, gender-based violence, Rays of Hope thought it necessary to bring men together to discuss contributing factors to gender-based violence and femicide.”
John Chauke, one of the guests said, “The event made me realise that men have the freedom to speak out without fear of judgement.
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“It struck me that we all face similar challenges in our lives, yet we are often afraid to speak up, but after this event I believe everyone can speak out.”
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Members and Citizens Movement leader Sibusiso Sibeko discussed the increase of teenage pregnancy rates since lockdown was implemented in South Africa last year.