The Mpumalanga Provincial Legislature deputy speaker, Jeaneth Thabethe, said to curb genderbased violence (GBV), parents need to teach their children good behaviour from a young age.
Thabethe was speaking during the Youth Day celebrations on Thursday June 16, at the Revival for God of Grace Ministries in Msogwaba, Pienaar.
“Parents need to teach their kids manners and good behaviour and show them love, so that they do not grow up to be perpetrators of GBV. Parents need to stop spoiling their children in the name of love. This can make a person feel a sense of entitlement and one can end up abusing their partner when they are older,” she said.
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Thabethe joined a group of young people from Pienaar township and they engaged in a number of activities aimed at creating awareness around this day.
She applauded the youth for choosing to go to church rather than going out partying.
“It gives us provincial leaders a sense of hope that there are young people who see a future without the abuse of alcohol. Continue respecting your family and elders. For those of you who are looking to achieve your dreams, do not give up. You will get there. Have a mission, a vision and determination, and always keep the faith.”
Thabethe also took the opportunity to watch a soccer tournament at the Msogwaba Sports Ground that was hosted by the ANC Youth League in Zone B.