Makwassie, Lebaleng - The Dr Kenneth Kaunda District Municipality, in collaboration with key sector departments and stakeholders including the South African Police Service (SAPS), the Department of Social Development, and the Department of Health alongside district and local NPOs and NGOs successfully hosted a Men and Boys Social Dialogue late March 2026
The event took place at Lebaleng Community Hall in Makwassie
Held under the theme “Better Man for Tomorrow: Men and Boys Championing Change Not in My Name,” the dialogue formed part of ongoing efforts to mobilise men and boys to actively stand against gender-based violence (GBV) and all forms of abuse directed at women, children, and vulnerable groups
This initiative also supported the broader Men’s March Against Gender-Based Violence
The programme was officially opened by Kabelo Modisadife from the Faith-Based Organisation (FBO) with Makane Ntuagae serving as Programme Director. Tebogo Seipehlo delivered the purpose of the dialogue, highlighting the pressing social challenges affecting men and boys across the district and the North West Province
He emphasised the importance of collective responsibility and solution-driven engagement to address societal issues, particularly the scourge of gender-based violence
Stakeholders delivered messages of support through informative presentations. Mupitsi Malakana from the Department of Social Development provided guidance on the registration of NPOs and NGOs, as well as the social assistance programmes available through SASSA, aimed at alleviating poverty and supporting vulnerable communities
Representing the Department of Health, Ms Keabetso Mahumapelo addressed communicable diseases linked to gender-based violence and their impact on men and boys, particularly in relation to gender inequality and health outcomes.
From a law enforcement perspective, Warrant Officer Makung elaborated on GBV-related matters, outlining procedures for reporting cases, the role of the police, and the importance of legal processes such as protection orders and alternative dispute resolution mechanisms prior to court proceedings
The dialogue also provided an interactive platform for community members to participate in a question-and-answer session.
Attendees openly shared their challenges and concerns regarding gender-based violence within their communities
The Local Community Policing Forum played a crucial role by offering paralegal advisory services, assisting participants with legal guidance relevant to the issues discussed
This engagement further contributed to the objectives of the District Development Model’s One Plan by promoting integrated community development.
This initiative forms part of the broader efforts led by the SANAC Civil Society Forum (CSF) Men’s Sector, which continues to mobilise men and boys nationwide to become champions of change in combating GBV, addressing toxic masculinity, and promoting HIV prevention
Through such engagements, the sector reaffirms its commitment to building safer, more inclusive communities, while complementing national campaigns such as Women’s Month
The dialogue brought together leadership from SANAC, government institutions, development partners, and the private sector, reflecting a unified commitment to social transformation
Wolmaransstad Link proud partner of: K53 Learners Classroom Wolmaransstad
Powered by: Blogger
Updated: April 2026
#WolmaransstadLinkNews