Multiple statistics over the years have shown that South Africa is among the nations with the highest rates of homicide and gender-based violence (GBV).
Early last month, the Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC) revealed the results of South Africa’s national GBV prevalence study. After surveying 10 012 individuals: 5 603 women and 4 409 men, the study scrutinised the prevalence of GBV, painting a stark picture of the lived experiences of its victims. As a result, the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality recently launched the official start of the 16 Days of Activism against the Gender-Based Violence campaign.
Coinciding with these revelations and exacerbating the sense of immediacy, South Africa’s 16 Days of Activism aligns with the United Nations’ global call to eliminate violence against women and girls.
In response, the YMCA Nelson Mandela Bay non-profit organisation led efforts within the local community of Helenvale by observing 16 Days of Activism through a compelling community activation. Collaborating with the Driven Dance Crew, the event engaged community members, handing out pamphlets and vital information addressing crucial GBV-related issues, how to seek support, break the silence, and debunk myths surrounding GBV.
Lerato Lebopo, CEO of YMCA Nelson Mandela Bay, emphasised the organisation’s commitment to social justice, “At YMCA Nelson Mandela Bay, we believe that true change begins with empowering young people to become champions of justice, equity, and human dignity. As a youth-oriented nonprofit organisation, we see it as our responsibility to address the issue of Gender-Based Violence head-on.”
Lebopo added,
Beyond the 16 Days of Activism, YMCA Nelson Mandela Bay implements a Transformative Masculinity outreach programme in schools. The organisation’s Public Relations and Communications Manager, Fion Mfena, explained, “This initiative engages and educates young men on becoming responsible and empathetic individuals, respecting others’ rights and dignity. Covering essential topics such as social norms, human rights, and self-awareness, the programme proactively tackles the root causes underlying GBV.”
“As South Africa navigates its tumultuous socio-economic landscape, the findings of the national GBV study, coupled with community-driven initiatives like this one by YMCA Nelson Mandela Bay, are pivotal in catalysing societal change and fostering a future devoid of violence and gender inequality,” Mfenqa concluded.
YMCA Nelson Mandela Bay recently conducted a Transformative Masculinity dialogue at St Thomas High School in Gelvandale, where the facilitators covered topics such as what it means to be a man, suicidal thoughts, and sexuality. The aim of the dialogue was to create a safe and open space for young men to reflect on societal expectations, challenge harmful stereotypes, and promote mental well-being, encouraging healthier understandings of masculinity and personal identity.
