DSD to Host Men’s Dialogue in Limpopo as Part of International Men’s Day Commemoration

Precious Mupenzi

• As South Africa prepares for the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children, the Department of Social Development, in partnership with Limpopo DSD, will host a Men’s Dialogue Programme in Polokwane on 21 November to address the challenges men face and promote positive role models.
• The event, held in recognition of International Men’s Day, will focus on men’s physical and mental wellbeing, tackling societal pressures, and redefining masculinity to promote gender equality and combat violence against women and children.
• Aligned with the National Strategic Plan on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide, the programme aims to empower men to take an active role in family and community life, shifting harmful social norms and contributing to a violence-free society.

As South Africa gears up for the annual 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children, the Department of Social Development (DSD), in partnership with Limpopo DSD, will host a Men’s Dialogue Programme on 21 November 2024 at the Ranch Hotel in Polokwane, Limpopo.

Held in recognition of International Men’s Day on 19 November, the event will spotlight the importance of men’s physical and mental wellbeing while promoting positive male role models. With 150 men from Limpopo’s districts expected to attend, the dialogue will address the challenges and responsibilities men face in today’s society.

Mr Tshepo Mudavheni, DSD’s Assistant Director for Gender and Women Empowerment, described the programme as a vital step in redefining men’s roles in building healthier families and communities. “International Men’s Day allows us to celebrate the contributions of men while encouraging accountability and respect,” he stated. “This dialogue empowers men to embrace gender equality and actively work to end violence against women and children.”

The Men’s Dialogue Programme aligns with the 16 Days of Activism campaign, fostering discussions on equitable relationships and the societal pressures men face. Mudavheni emphasised that tackling these complex challenges requires intentional, supportive dialogue. “By redefining masculinity in a positive light, men can break the cycles of violence that harm women, children, and communities,” he said.

Under the theme “Championing Excellence: Celebrating Men’s Contributions and Leadership,” the programme will explore key topics such as mental health, emotional intelligence, and caregiving roles. Mudavheni highlighted the significance of these discussions, particularly given the mental health crisis in South Africa, where one in three men face mental health challenges but often go untreated due to stigma and lack of resources.

Mudavheni stressed that empowering men to take an active role in family and community life can reduce violence, shift harmful social norms, and promote gender equality. “Transformation starts with personal accountability and commitment. Men must see themselves as part of the solution to violence and inequality,” he noted.

The programme also aligns with the National Strategic Plan on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (NSP-GBVF), which prioritises prevention, healing, and social accountability. Mudavheni explained that the dialogue equips men with tools to challenge harmful norms and actively champion gender equality.

Through the Men’s Dialogue Programme, the DSD aims to inspire men to contribute meaningfully to a GBV-free society where individuals, regardless of gender, live free from violence, discrimination, or harm rooted in inequality. This platform for reflection and growth underscores the critical role men play in fostering communities built on respect, understanding, and non-violence.