Men’s forum promotes gender equality

"Don’t sleep in a time of a revolution for that is foolishness". Profound words by Dr P Jones raising the bar on what was to become a successful 1st Men’s workshop organised by the Department of Agriculture, Rural Development and Land Administration, held on 31 July 2012, at the Lowveld College of Agriculture.

The aim of the workshop was to create a platform to discuss all issues affecting men in modern society. "It is the day for men to stand up and say I care" said Mr A Maforah.

In her keynote address the MEC, Ms Candith Mashego-Dlamini encouraged all men to help make this world a better place. "Men can play a major role to help curb the spread of HIV/AIDS", said the MEC. "The constitution makes provision for men to have more than one wife, provided they consult and get approval from the current wife", continued the MEC.

Dr. P Jones encouraged all men to recognize who they are, to know that they are created in the image of God, that they are Sons of God and to know where they come from. He further encouraged the men to be role models to society. "Be the best in all you do. Some make things happen while others want things to happen and others wake up and wonder what happened, where you stand?" asked Dr. Jones. "An unexamined life is not worth living", he continued.

Mr Dumisani Rebombo from Sonke Gender Justice encouraged all men present to join the movement of men who care. He said, "As men we should not go with the system, alter the current situation, don’t do things the same way your great-grand parents did things". "Respect your partner, equality means equal respect", he concluded.

Mr Dumisani Madubandlela from Cancer Association of South Africa, made a presentation on the causes, signs and treatment of every man’s fear, prostate cancer. This was followed by clarity seeking questions from the men in attendance.

On the day, a Men’s Forum was elected comprising of members from the Lowveld College of Agriculture, Gert Sibande District and Ehlanzeni North District.

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