KwaZulu-Natal Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs MEC Thulasizwe Buthelezi has joined traditional leaders in calling on men to take a stand against gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) and play an active role in protecting women and children.
Buthelezi joined Amakhosi, Izinduna, Amabutho and women at a campaign held in the Swayimane area under the Gcumisa Traditional Authority on Thursday.
The campaign, led by the Provincial House of Traditional and Khoisan leaders, sought to raise awareness of the devastating impact of GBVF, while encouraging men to take responsibility for preventing violence.
The campaign highlighted the devastating impact of GBVF and called on men to take responsibility for creating safer communities.
Traditional leaders called on men to reclaim their role as protectors and ambassadors of safety, urging communities to speak out against abuse and support efforts to ensure perpetrators are brought to justice.
Buthelezi commended the initiative, saying the involvement of traditional leaders is important in ensuring that the message against GBVF reaches communities across the province.
“We are encouraged by the vision of Amakhosi in organising this campaign, which seeks to instil a sense of responsibility among men. Amakhosi play a crucial role in our communities, and we commend them for prioritising the fight against gender-based violence and femicide.
“As a department, we welcome this initiative because it amplifies the collective voice against gender-based violence and ensures that everyone, including Izinduna, is actively involved in the fight against GBVF,” Buthelezi explained.
Buthelezi called for similar campaigns to be rolled out across the province to extend community participation in the fight against violence.
He also urged communities to collaborate with law enforcement agencies, report cases of abuse and support efforts to ensure that perpetrators are held accountable. – SAnews.gov.za
