In celebration of the International Day of the Boy Child, the Gauteng Provincial Legislature, in partnership with the Gauteng Department of Social Development, hosted the inaugural Gauteng Boys Parliament on Friday, 16 May 2025.

The event, held at the Civic Theatre in Alberton, Ekurhuleni, was spearheaded by MEC for Social Development Faith Mazibuko, Legislature Speaker Morakane Mosupyoe, and supported by the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality.


The Boys Sector Parliament was established to empower and educate young boys to grow into responsible citizens and future leaders, while promoting a society free from violence.

 
In her keynote address, MEC Mazibuko praised the initiative for creating a platform where boys can voice their concerns and be part of critical decision-making processes. She underscored the importance of discipline, education, and respect among the youth.

 
“Education is the only weapon that can help you change your life and uplift your family,” Mazibuko said. “We must all stand together to support the boy child, who is equally vulnerable to challenges such as drugs, gangsterism, bullying, and even gender-based violence.”


She encouraged boys to avoid destructive behavior and instead become part of the solution to social ills, affirming that the Boys Parliament could serve as a catalyst for positive change.

The Parliament featured four commissions, each exploring key issues faced by young boys:
Gender-Based Violence and Femicide
The Role of Present Fathers in a Boy’s Development
Cultural Influence in Shaping Responsible Boys
Modern-Day Life and Technology: Impact on the Boy Child

During debates, the boys expressed their concern about the devastating effects of gender-based violence, stressing the critical role that boys and men must play in ending the cycle.


Seventeen-year-old Simphiwe Jalvani from Phahama Secondary School in Mohlakeng described the experience as eye-opening and empowering.

 
“I’m grateful for the opportunity. It was a great experience to engage with my peers on real issues affecting both boys and girls,” he said.