District Men’s Parliament Launched in Johannesburg: A Call to Action for Community Transformation

The City of Johannesburg officially launched the District Men’s Parliament on Monday, 18 November 2024, at the Conny Bapela Council Chambers in Braamfontein. Known as “Takuwani Riime”, a Tshivenda phrase meaning “Let Us Stand Up Together,” this initiative calls on men from all walks of life to unite as active partners in advancing community safety, public health, and socio-economic development.

This landmark event brought together a diverse assembly of stakeholders, including representatives from provincial government, the South African Police Service (SAPS), traditional leaders, and civil society organizations from across Johannesburg’s seven regions. Each region presented comprehensive reports detailing their achievements, challenges, and future plans, fostering collaboration and shared accountability.

Leadership Advocates for Change

Acting Executive Mayor and MMC for Health and Social Development, Councillor Ennie Makhafola, highlighted the importance of the Men’s Parliament as a vehicle for societal transformation. In her address, she emphasized the dual focus of the initiative:

1. Denouncing Gender-Based Violence (GBV): As a key pillar of the Parliament’s agenda.
2. Coordinating Civil Society Efforts: To proactively address community challenges.

Makhafola outlined several flagship initiatives spearheaded by the City to combat GBV, including:

• Training and Capacity Development Programmes to empower communities with knowledge and skills.
• The GBV Advisory Committee, offering strategic direction on anti-GBV efforts.
• The Ithemba Crisis Line, a crucial support system for those affected by GBV.
• Establishment of shelters for victims of GBV, rape, and child abuse, providing safe havens for recovery and reintegration.

She urged attendees to leverage these resources in building safer and healthier communities.

Community Programmes in Focus

Stakeholders from across Johannesburg shared updates on critical community programmes:

1. Adopt-a-Gogo Programme

Fraser Thabethe, chairperson of the Human Rights sector in Region F, discussed the Adopt-a-Gogo programme, which supports elderly residents and indigents by:

• Assisting them in accessing the City’s Expanded Social Package.
• Delivering food parcels from City Deep.
• Encouraging healthy living through exercise, sewing activities, and community engagement.

While the programme has made significant strides, Thabethe acknowledged the impact of budget constraints, which limit its reach and effectiveness.

2. Health4Men Initiative

Beloved Manasidze from ANOVA introduced the Health4Men (Power to the Future) programme, a healthcare initiative targeting adolescent boys and young men. Delivered through youth-friendly Adolescent and Men’s Clinics, this programme focuses on:

• HIV prevention and treatment.
• Promoting gender equality.
• Creating safe spaces for health and wellness discussions.

The initiative underscores the role of healthcare in fostering holistic community development.

A Platform for Positive Change

Throughout the launch, political and administrative leaders presented strategies to enhance men’s health, address HIV, and eradicate GBV. The Men’s Parliament aims to empower men with the tools and knowledge needed to drive meaningful community transformation.

The event also served as a platform to reflect on the strides made in advancing gender equality while identifying actionable steps for future progress. By positioning men as agents of positive change, the City of Johannesburg is creating a foundation for transformative social development.

A Vision for the Future

The launch of the District Men’s Parliament represents a critical milestone in the City’s efforts to foster unity and leadership among men. Through initiatives like Takuwani Riime, Johannesburg is encouraging collective action to tackle societal challenges head-on.

By equipping men to take active roles in their communities, the City is setting the stage for a safer, healthier, and more equitable future. Together, the community can pave the way for a society that thrives on inclusivity, mutual respect, and shared progress.