District Men’s Parliament talk health and gender-based violence

uThukela District Municipality launched the District Men’s Parliament on August 23, championing change in HIV prevention and gender-based violence (GBV), among other things.

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District Mayor Siphiwe Mazibuko and Dr Mbulelo Dyasi from SANAC Men’s Sector were part of the event.  The aim was to heighten the awareness of preventable health problems, including cancer and HIV, and to encourage early detection and treatment among men.

During the dialogues that were held, the stakeholders – which included KwaZulu-Natal Men’s Sector, UNPA, Takuwani Riime and SANAC Men’s Sector – attempted to develop a plan of action to eradicate gender-based violence in communities.
The focus was also placed on the elimination of social ills. It was echoed that one shouldn’t wait until gender-based violence hits home before realising that men need to take a responsive stance to prevent the scourge of violence, as sexual violence can directly lead to HIV infection. Men were also encouraged to undergo tests for HIV.

“If you are negative, you can stay that way and use condoms. If you are positive, you can control the virus by taking Anti Retro Viral (ARV) treatment and make sure you use condoms to protect your partner,” one delegate said.

Eating healthy food, exercising regularly and drinking less was encouraged in order to live a long, healthy life. In his keynote address, Mayor Mazibuko thanked the community and all stakeholders, reminding men that real men don’t abuse women.

He further encouraged men to remember their role as protectors in their households and to be active participants in the fight to eradicate violence against women and children.

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