“We want to build a better society and change the perception that is often expressed about men that they are trash. We want to reclaim their dignity.”
These were the remarks made by the founder of Amadoda Aqotho, Lumkile Sizila, a well-known activist in the metro.
Amadoda Aqotho is a non-profit organisation which is based in Makhaza, Khayelitsha that focuses on working with men, including young boys, to help groom them to become better versions of themselves.
The organisation was established in 2021 in an effort to create a safe space where men can share their challenges and experiences. It currently has 15 active members.

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Helping men reclaim their dignity

Sizila said the organisation wants to see men reclaiming their positions in their families and becoming responsible heads of their households.
He said many men had abandoned their responsibilities at home and instead spent their days in shebeens for various reasons.

“We want men to be at the forefront in the community. We want them to stand up against any wrongdoing and say, ‘No, not in our name.’ At the same time, we also groom young boys to become better fathers,” explained Sizila.
He said the organisation has programmes aimed at educating men about issues affecting them and their communities.

Tackling GBV, substance abuse and crime

Gender-based violence, substance abuse, domestic violence, men’s health and crime prevention are among the issues addressed through the organisation’s programmes.
“We are also working with some of the primary schools in Khayelitsha and Mfuleni to educate learners about school bullying, substance abuse, cyberbullying and gang wars. We motivate them to focus on their studies,” he explained.

Sizila said the organisation also conducts door-to-door campaigns to recruit new members.
“We are active in the community, where we attend community meetings to talk about the organisation. We also attend court cases involving rape and murder to support victims’ families,” he said.
However, Sizila said the organisation faces several challenges, including a lack of office space and equipment.
He said members often have to do their administrative work at Makhaza Library because the organisation does not have its own office.

Organisation operates without a budget

“We don’t have an office. We convene our meetings at my garage every Monday, or we ask for space at Makhaza Library. We don’t have a computer or laptop to do our admin work,” he said, adding that the organisation is operating with no budget.

Appeal for office space and equipment

Sizila appealed to individuals, businesses and organisations that may be able to assist Amadoda Aqotho with equipment or office space.
“We are appealing to anyone who can give us an old computer or laptop for data capturing. Also, someone can donate a shipping container that we can use as an office,” he pleaded.
People who would like to support or contribute to the organisation can contact its founder, Lumkile Sizila, on 064 738 7516.