MEN AND BOYS PARLIAMENT CALLS FOR FUNDING AND PRESIDENTIAL WORKING GROUP

By Pricilla Seamelando

“We call on provincial legislatures to ensure sectoral parliaments are properly funded so that their resolutions move beyond discussion into action,” said National Convenor Professor Mbulelo Dyasi during the sitting of the 5th National Men and Boys Parliament at the KwaZulu-Natal Legislature.

His remarks framed discussions centred on strengthening implementation, coordination and participation in programmes affecting boys and young men.

As stakeholders of the Better Men 4 Tomorrow campaign, in partnership with NCOP, Africa Centre, Inclusive Health, Stellenbosch University, and the Department of Social Development, the National Boys Parliament was launched to give boys a platform to speak for themselves. It was resolved that all men’s sectoral parliaments would include boys and young men, especially on the first day, hence their presence at the session. All districts and localities are expected to emulate this practice, and no men’s sectoral parliament should proceed without the participation of boys.

The Parliament also considered proposals on how government should coordinate interventions affecting men and boys. Gauteng’s Men’s Sector had initially proposed that the Government of National Unity create a ministry and minister for men and boys. However, following further discussions, a more practical proposal emerged that President Ramaphosa and the Deputy President Paul Mashatile establish a Presidential Working Group on Men and Boys. Delegates were requested to adopt this motion during the course of the two-day sitting.

Professor Dyasi further recognised leaders and officials who have supported the men’s parliament and civil rights organisations over the years, including Dr Sebolelo Mvulane; Mr Mabalane Mfundisi; Inkosi Langa Mavuso from the National House of Traditional and Khoisan Leaders; Mr Mlungisi Khumalo; Mr Pinampi Maano; Prince Nhlanganiso Zulu Kazwelithi; Reverend Xolamzi Sam; Mr Mkhonto Blose; Dr Luzile Ndziyane; Mr Nkere Skhosana; Honourable Speaker Nothemba Boyce; and newly appointed Patron, Honourable Premier Thami Ntuli.