One of the participants in the Inkciyo programme, Kwanele Mfecane (17) from Lusikisiki, is encouraging other boys to join this meaningful initiative. He acknowledges the challenges that young people, particularly boys, encounter, which can easily divert them from their intended paths.
“I joined this initiative to shield myself from negative behaviours and to secure a promising future,” Kwanele stated.
He urged his peers to embrace virginity testing, claiming it is crucial for maintaining self-respect and making informed decisions.
“I took time to reflect before joining, and I know it is not always easy. However, I chose to focus on my desires and not let others’ negative opinions deter me. Fight for what you believe in,” Mfecane advised.
Kwanele also shared that he would soon commence studying Marketing at the University of KwaZulu-Natal.
Councillor Nokuthula Mtuku, from the Special Programmes Unit and Social Services of the OR Tambo District Municipality, confirmed that children from five local municipalities within the district have gathered for Inkciyo.
She elaborated that Inkciyo is an annual programme hosted in collaboration with non-governmental organisations and associated departments.
“We collaborate to unite children from various local municipalities. This initiative addresses challenges such as teenage pregnancy, which is particularly prevalent in the OR Tambo District of the Eastern Cape. Through Inkciyo, we aim to reduce the high rate of teenage pregnancies, consequently minimising government expenditure on child support grants,” said Mtuku.
She added that the programme motivates children to avoid early pregnancies and empowers them with knowledge and support.
“We are also involving young boys in this initiative to encourage them to protect their sisters. We have observed instances where girls are victims of rape and murder, often by men. This programme educates boys to respect their sisters and make better choices. We also conduct awareness campaigns to educate older community members on changing harmful behaviours.
“As part of these efforts, we have established a Men’s Parliament in the OR Tambo District. Its members play a crucial role in aiding the government to protect girls and prevent them from becoming victims of rape,” Mtuku explained.
