Men from the Ingquza Hill Local Municipality have recently established the Ingquza Hill Local Municipality Men’s Movement. This initiative, launched last week, focuses on addressing the social challenges confronting men in the area.
One of the movement’s members, Zolile Mbono, mentioned that the launch coincided with celebrations for International Men’s Day. The event took place at the Methodist Church Hall in Flagstaff last week.
Mbono explained that the movement’s primary objective is to restore men’s dignity, particularly as many men have been observed not fulfilling their responsibilities within their households. Despite having a Community Policing Forum (CPF) to address crime, there was no dedicated platform for men to gather and address their issues.
“We organised a meeting, involving various stakeholders and CPF members, to discuss this issue. Subsequently, the Flagstaff Paralegal Advice Office conducted a training session attended by 30 members, right here in Flagstaff,” Mbono said.
Afterwards, another meeting brought together over 200 men from different sectors, culminating in the movement’s official launch.
Mbono also highlighted the area’s high crime rate, predominantly perpetrated by men.
Siya Ndesi, Secretary General for Men’s Sector from Songe Social Change, expressed his support for the movement. He emphasised that it would empower men to confront their challenges effectively.
“This initiative will simplify the process for men seeking help and allow better access to government services. It will also promote awareness about health issues, such as tuberculosis. The municipality has struggled with various problems, including tragic incidents involving women. It’s uplifting to see men collaborate to establish something beneficial for both them and the broader community,” said Ndesi.
