With the acknowledgement that violence against women is a serious problem in South Africa, government and various social partners will on 10 July host a national #100MenMarch.
Various formations will in the spirit of #ThumaMina heed the call by President Cyril Ramaphosa that all citizens should take a stand to stop violence against women and children.
The march is expected to draw at least 100 men from various sectors of society, such as government, business, labour, faith-based organisations, non-profit and media organisations to stop the abuse of women and children, said Acting Director General at Government Communication and Information System (GCIS), Phumla Williams.
“Government calls on all men to join the #100MenMarch and boldly declare that violence against women and children will not be tolerated in their respective environment or communities. The #100MenMarch will be a motivating force to ensure that men break the chain of abuse,” she said.
The march comes in the wake of the rise of femicide in South Africa, with Statistics South Africa reporting that the murder rate for women increased drastically by 117% between 2015 and 2016/17.
The number of women who experienced sexual offences also jumped from 31 665 in 2015/16 to 70 813 in 2016/17, which is an increase of 53%.
These are drastic increases in less than 24 months, Stats SA’s Crime against Women in South Africa report – which is an overview of all types of crime, including violent crimes, as they affect women in South Africa- revealed last week.
Horrific stories of intimate partner violence have been highlighted in the media since the #MenAreTrash hashtag went viral.
The murders of Karabo Mokeona; Nonkululeko Mpanza and Nompumelelo Mhlongo in Thokoza; Promise Mthembu in KwaZulu-Natal and Unisa student Jabulile Nhlapo, are some of the recent high-profile cases.
The #100MenMarch is also part of the centenary celebrations of former President Nelson Mandela and struggle stalwart Mama Albertina Sisulu who both committed their lives to the fight for the human rights particularly women and children.
The march celebrates their lives but also seeks to raise awareness on the scourge of violence against women and children.
The proceedings will commence at Church Square at 10am and end on the southern lawns of the Union Buildings.
Details on road closures will be provided by the City of Tshwane and will be placed on government platforms; www.gov.za @SAgovnews @GovermentZA.
Members of the public will be able to join in the conversation on Twitter using the hashtag #ThumaMina #100MenMarch. - SAnews.gov.za
