In what started off as just another topic trending on Twitter, the ‘men’s conference ‘ has now been turned into a reality as it kicked off its inaugural gathering at the Khayelitsha Tusong Centre on Friday, 11 February.
The aim of the conference is for men to come up with solutions to societal problems and not just sit back while Gender-Based Violence (GBV) crimes are increasing.
According to Project Uluvo secretary Phindile George, this is the period to mobilise strategic partner organisations and men in society to be at the forefront of moral regeneration and the fight to eliminate GBV.
George said the month of February has been used to simulate an imaginary “men’s conference” which has become popular on social media, IOL reports.
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George further mentioned that after the conference Project Uluvo will be initiating other discussions on the mentoring of young men through other initiation programmes where they would be inducted into manhood, and teaching them the basis of a relationship.
Meanwhile, GBV survivors can now apply for protection orders online, without having to be present in court after amendments to the Domestic Violence Prevention Bill has been signed into law at the beginning of February.
According to the provincial standing committee chairperson for social development Gillion Bosman, these improvements may pave the way in law to combat GBV, however, practical measures need to be in place otherwise these laws will remain lofty ideals.
“Equally as important to combatting GBV, but less well-known, are rape kits to sample DNA and identify unknown perpetrators.
“The most recent reply to my parliamentary questions indicated that there are 20 306 rape kits available in the province at police stations, with 11 932 for adults and 8 374 for children,” Bosman said.
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Picture: Phindile George/ Facebook