​Last Wednesday, the Gauteng Department of Social Development-funded Akasosha Men’s Forum hosted a men’s discussion aimed at assisting them to be role models.
The gathering, which was well attended by local men, was held at the Pentecostal Christian Fellowship Church in Soshanguve Extension 12B.

Giving the purpose for the day, Social Worker and Tshwane Region Men’s Coordinator Welly Mahlabela said, “The intention here is to engage as men on issues that normally lead to domestic violence in families or relationships. So, we felt that it was important to have discussions on finances, health, skills development, substance abuse, justice, and legal.”

Speaking to attendees, Soshanguve Magistrate Court, Justice and Legal Services, official Reuben Tharaka said that most of the cases they deal with involve child maintenance.

Tharaka cautioned men to be honest with their partners about their finances because if you have been lying, all will be revealed in court. "Make it a point that before you commit to or marry someone, you are well informed about them.”

Akasosha, which stands for Soshanguve Akasia Men’s Forum, offers counselling, awareness-raising campaigns, drama, and men’s dialogue in the Tshwane Region. 

Last month, the Gauteng Department of Social Development launched a One Million Men signature petition with the aim of getting men who are committed to the fight against gender-based violence to avail themselves of not only taking a stand. But to volunteer their services in the fight against the scourge.