In celebration of Women’s Month, Eastern Cape Social Development MEC Bukiwe Fanta has launched a Men’s Forum and the Orange Day Campaign as part of government’s intensified efforts to tackle gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) and strengthen child welfare in the Alfred Nzo District Municipality. The significant occasion also marked the official unveiling of the newly renovated Maluti Child and Youth Care Centre, reinforcing government’s commitment to improving facilities and services for vulnerable children and young people.
A key component of the day was the establishment of the Men’s Forum, which is designed to actively engage men in efforts to prevent and combat gender-based violence. The forum aims to promote accountability among men by creating a platform where they can share experiences, learn from one another and confront the root causes of violence in their communities.
“We recognise that men play a crucial role in addressing the root causes of violence,” said MEC Fanta. She said the forum would provide a platform for meaningful discussions on masculinity, gender equity and the importance of taking a firm stand against violence. “It is time to shift the narrative,” she said, calling for a new definition of masculinity that embraces respect, empathy and partnership.
The launch of the Orange Day Campaign further mobilised communities to take a united stand against violence against women and children while promoting safer, more caring and inclusive communities. The newly renovated Maluti Child and Youth Care Centre will play a pivotal role in providing support and protection to vulnerable children and young people affected by abuse, neglect and trauma. With a total budget allocation of R11.8 million for the 2026/27 financial year, the centre is expected to provide a range of essential services.
These services include counselling and mental health support provided by trained professionals to assist children in processing traumatic experiences and building resilience. The centre will also provide educational support to help children thrive academically and contribute towards breaking cycles of poverty and violence. Young people will further benefit from life-skills training aimed at equipping them with the tools needed to navigate personal and social challenges effectively. Recreational activities will also be provided to promote social interaction, emotional wellbeing and healthy development.
Commenting on the launch of the Men’s Forum Matatiele, community members expressed their commitment to combating gender-based violence and promoting healthy relationships. Mongezi Tinini of Ward 12 highlighted the important role that men must play in addressing GBV. “As men, we must take responsibility for our actions and the messages we send. It is time to redefine what it means to be a man in our communities. We need to show that strength lies in respect and empathy, not in violence. We have the power to change the narrative and teach the next generation that real men uplift and protect”, he said.
Eric Nell of Ward 13 expressed his commitment to facilitating workshops and discussions that challenge harmful stereotypes and promote gender equity. “We need to foster an environment where discussing our feelings and experiences is encouraged, not shamed. Men can be allies in this fight, and it is time we step up to support our women and children”, said Nell.
To further amplify the fight against gender-based violence, MEC Fanta highlighted the importance of collaboration between government, local organisations and community leaders. In the Alfred Nzo District, 16 Victim Empowerment Programmes (VEPs) have been funded for the 2026/27 financial year, receiving nearly R3.1 million to implement services for victims of crime and violence. Fanta emphasised that the success of these interventions depends on collective action and collaboration. She urged community members to reflect on the role each person can play in building safer and more inclusive communities.
