President Cyril Ramaphosa of South Africa has urged fathers and men across the country to take a firm stand against gender-based violence and femicide, emphasizing that the fight must begin in homes and in the way boys are raised. Speaking at the 150th anniversary of the Evangelical Presbyterian Church in South Africa, Ramaphosa called on men to say "Enough is enough. Not in our name." This comes as a series of tragic incidents have been reported, including the discovery of the body of Ntombifuthi Nxumalo, the 10th woman to be found dead in the Ekurhuleni municipality in two months.
The body of Ntombifuthi Nxumalo was found on Saturday morning in Thembisa near the Mooifontein Cemetery in the Vusimuzi section, with police believing she was stoned to death. An 11th body was found on Sunday afternoon in Springs. These incidents have heightened concerns about the prevalence of gender-based violence and femicide in the country. Ramaphosa emphasized that the values of accountability and respect must be visible in everyday life, including how fathers raise their children. He noted that boys learn about manhood from the men around them, observing how they interact with women and resolve disagreements.
Ramaphosa stressed that boys observe how men express strength, noting that they must be taught that there is strength in gentleness and courage in kindness. He urged men to raise a different generation of young men and boys, ones who understand that respect for women is a basic recognition of their humanity, rather than an act of generosity. The President emphasized that respecting women is not a favour, but a recognition of their equal humanity. He called on men to respect, honour, and support women, while also urging churches to become safe spaces for survivors of abuse.
Ramaphosa called on churches to provide refuge for those who suffer, ensuring that women and children feel safe. He emphasized that abuse must be confronted and never concealed, including within religious communities. The President noted that there must never be a contradiction between what is preached on Sunday and how people behave from Monday to Saturday. He urged men to take a stand against violence and promote a culture of accountability.
The President criticized men who use wealth, power, or threats to intimidate women, referring to a video in which a man threatened women. He stated that a real man does not engage in such behaviour. Ramaphosa called on men’s groups and the church to help confront gender-based violence and promote a culture of accountability. He emphasized that men must work together to create a safer and more equitable society.
Ramaphosa emphasized that men must take a firm stance against violence, stating that their covenant among men must be clear, firm, and heard throughout the country. He called on men to say "Not in our homes, not in our churches, not in our communities and not in our name as the men of South Africa." The President's message was clear: men must take responsibility for creating a culture of respect and accountability.
The President's call to action comes as part of a broader effort to address the scourge of gender-based violence and femicide in South Africa. His message emphasizes the need for men to take a stand against violence and promote a culture of respect and accountability. By working together, men can help create a safer and more equitable society for all.
Key points
- President Cyril Ramaphosa calls on men to take a stand against gender-based violence and femicide.
- The President emphasizes the need for men to promote a culture of accountability and respect in their homes and communities.
- Ramaphosa urges churches to become safe spaces for survivors of abuse and to promote a culture of accountability.
