BUILDING RESPONSIBLE MASCULINITY: BOYS’ DIALOGUE ADVANCES COMMUNITY SAFETY IN UMZUMBE

By Bongo Shozi

• Dialogue targets root causes of gender-based violence by shaping attitudes and behaviours of young boys early.
• Cultural mentorship strengthened: Traditional leadership, through ukudodisa, reinforces positive values and community legitimacy.
• Youth empowerment focus: Skills development, entrepreneurship, and programmes like YOLO (You Only Leave Once) positioned as pathways to safer, economically active communities.

The KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Social Development, Ms Mbali Shinga, convened a Boys’ Dialogue on 27 March 2026 at Sihlonyaneni Community Hall in Ward 18 under uMzumbe Local Municipality, as part of a strategic effort to nurture responsible, value-driven young men and strengthen community safety.

The initiative responds directly to pressing social challenges in the area, particularly the prevalence of Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF), including targeted violence against young women based on sexual orientation. It reflects a preventative, community-based approach by the Department of Social Development (DSD), with a strong emphasis on early intervention to reshape attitudes, behaviours, and harmful social norms among young males. By extending outreach across wards, the Department continues to demonstrate its commitment to inclusivity and to provide meaningful support to vulnerable communities.

The dialogue provided a structured platform for mentorship, behavioural guidance, and social education. Discussions focused on responsible conduct, the risks associated with substance abuse, and the long-term implications of premature sexual activity. Traditional leaders played a pivotal role through the practice of ukudodisa, offering culturally grounded mentorship on manhood and responsibility. This integration of cultural leadership enhances community ownership and bridges generational gaps in moral guidance.

To add to the engagement, Ukhozi FM DJ “Sgqemeza” Sipho Mbatha delivered a motivational address, encouraging young participants to remain grounded in strong values, discipline, and faith while making positive life choices.

Addressing the dialogue, MEC Shinga emphasised that the initiative is a deliberate and strategic intervention aimed at addressing the root causes of crime and social instability, rather than a routine community engagement. She highlighted the link between unsafe communities and limited economic development, noting that crime undermines investment and sustainable growth.

The Department’s increased focus on the boy child signals a proactive policy direction that equips young men with essential life skills, positive values, and opportunities to prevent future social ills. Programmes such as YOLO were highlighted as key tools in mentoring, behaviour change, and youth empowerment.

MEC Shinga further called for a collective societal effort in raising responsible young men, urging families, educators, and community leaders to play an active role in guiding and supporting the boy child. Young participants were encouraged to build respectful relationships, uphold discipline, and become champions for the protection of women and children.

The promotion of entrepreneurship and access to skills development opportunities through departmental centres was also underscored as a critical pathway to economic independence and sustainable livelihoods.

The dialogue concluded with a strong emphasis on the importance of parental involvement, open communication, and nurturing home environments in shaping a generation of socially responsible and economically active young men.