Officials from the Department of Correctional Services in Kokstad recently launched a men’s forum at Rondefontein Game Reserve on the outskirts of Kokstad.
According to Moses Groep, manager for special programmes, this was long overdue as men will now be in a position to discuss various issues that affect them directly.
“In various institutions, we have common problems of sexual harassment cases where women complain about uncalled for behaviour from men passing remarks and touching them that makes them feel uncomfortable in the workplace. I am appealing to you to refrain, colleagues, as this is considered a serious offence,” he said.
“We grew up in a society that tells us that men don’t cry, some men are treated as subordinates at home, and they don’t feel respected by their wives. When they come to us to offload their burdens, that should not make them feel as if it is a laughing matter. Statistics show that there is a high rate of alcohol abuse, and this translates to a high rate of absenteeism perpetuated mostly by men.”
He concluded by reminding the men that God gave them the gift of being strategic thinkers at home and at work, so they should reclaim their position and man up.
Bonginkosi Mbotshwa, the Department of Correctional Services spokesperson in the Kokstad management area, said there was not a dull moment, as during the programme, officials provided entertainment with poetry and boisterous songs.
“Overall, they agreed that this must be an ongoing initiative as they have been refuelled and such events give them power to overcome life’s hurdles,” he said.
HAVE YOUR SAY
Like the South Coast Fever’s Facebook page
