A ray of hope for gender-based violence
ALEXANDRA –The event also touched on the surprisingly high rate of teenage pregnancy that has emerged since lockdown.
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.
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.
“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.”
Members and Citizens Movement leader Sibusiso Sibeko discussed the increase of teenage pregnancy rates since lockdown was implemented in South Africa last year.
