Deputy Minister in the Presidency Kenny Morolong says there is an urgent need within families, communities and society at large to invest more in nurturing the boy child.
“We must teach boys, from an early age, that actions have consequences, that respect is not a sign of weakness but of strength; that discipline is an act of self-love and that power, in all its forms, must always be accompanied by responsibility,” the Deputy Minister said.
Morolong was speaking on behalf of Deputy President Paul Mashatile at the Boys and Men Parliament at the KwaZulu-Natal Legislature on Thursday.
Morolong said early pruning shapes a tree, trains it into a strong and balanced form and reduces the need for drastic correction later in life.
“This responsibility extends far beyond individual households. It is a collective duty that speaks directly to the future of our families, the stability of our communities, and the moral fabric of our nation.”
He stressed that if society fails to guide and shape boys early in life, society risks confronting far greater future challenges that could have been prevented through consistent guidance, positive role modelling and firm but compassionate leadership.
“It is therefore commendable that, through the National Men and Boys Parliament, an initiative that began with a march through the streets of Cape Town, you have taken decisive leadership in engaging men and boys in combating gender-based violence, promoting health, and advancing socio economic development.
“Working in partnership with other men’s formations, this Parliament continues to play an active role in transforming societal attitudes. This helps in addressing the challenges of HIV and AIDS, and fostering responsible and ethical leadership among men, all in pursuit of safer and more cohesive communities,” Morolong said.
He added that the Men and Boys Parliament and its partners reaffirm the belief that positive masculinity, accountability and collective action are essential to building sustainable, peaceful and inclusive communities.
“It lies with men who are prepared to champion HIV prevention, not as a technical discussion, but as a matter of dignity, responsibility and life itself.
“Men who understand that protecting one’s health is not a sign of weakness, but an act of courage towards your partners, your children and your communities.
“A masculinity that rejects violence, rejects entitlement to women’s bodies, and rejects the false notion that strength is proven through harm. True strength is demonstrated through restraint, respect, and responsibility.”
Morolong said if society does not raise boys to value equality, compassion and respect, it will continue to reap the bitter fruits of neglect tomorrow.
“Our hope lies with men who are resolute in bringing about an end to gender-based violence and femicide [GBVF]. Therefore, men must be at the forefront of ending it.
“Women, children, older persons, and other vulnerable groups should never live in fear due to the scourge of GBVF, which is predominantly perpetrated by men.”
He said that lasting change begins with those willing to challenge harmful norms, model responsible behaviour, and protect the dignity and lives of women, children and communities. – SAnews.gov.za
