The Commission for Gender Equality (CGE) has called all men to join hands with the commission and like-minded organisations in ensuring that gender based violence and other atrocities are nipped in the bud.
In the year of celebrating the Centenary of Mama Albertina Nontsikelelo Sisulu and Tata Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela, the commission is partnering with the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS), government departments, civil society organisations (CSOs), faith-based organisations (FBOs) and business in the #100MenMarch, to oppose violence against women and children.
The #100MenMarch is a government initiative with social partners, which calls on all men to join in and boldly declare that violence against women and children will not be tolerated in their respective environment or communities.
The march forms part of the centenary celebrations of former President Nelson Mandela and struggle stalwart Mama Albertina Sisulu, who both committed their lives to the fight for human rights, particularly women and children.
The march celebrates their lives but also seeks to raise awareness on the scourge of violence against women and children.
CGE chairperson Lulama Nare said that as a befitting tribute to Mama Sisulu and Tata Mandela, who were committed to the well-being of women and children, the commission has resolved to join the #100MenMarch in order to raise its voice and awareness on the alarmingly high number of gender based violence and other related atrocities against women and children.
Nare said the commission’s participation is also informed by its endeavour to create a society free from gender oppression and inequality.
These are the ideals that Mama Sisulu and Tata Mandela would have hoped to see being realised, more so a non-violent society. It is in our hands to ensure that women and children are safe. The selfless deeds of Mama Sisulu and Tata Mandela should not be in vain, Nare said.
The scourge of violence against women and children has reached staggering figures and on average, one in five South African women older than 18 has experienced physical violence.
The march will start at 10am from Church Square and end at the southern lawns of the Union Buildings in Tshwane.
Source: South African Government News Agency