When Men Speak Up: The Role of Men in Ending GBV

The hashtag #JusticeForOlerato has been trending strongly on social media, bringing much-needed attention to the scourge of gender-based violence (GBV) in South Africa. While the conversations are loud and urgent, one question remains: Where are the men in these crucial discussions?

It is important to acknowledge that men, too, can be victims of GBV. However, statistics consistently show that women and children are disproportionately affected and remain the most vulnerable. The harsh reality is that in South Africa, one of the highest rates of GBV globally, women bear the brunt of this violence.

Ending GBV is not a women’s issue alone, it requires men to actively participate in changing mindsets and behaviours. Organisations like Sonke Gender Justice have been at the forefront of this work, encouraging men to reflect on harmful norms and become allies in the fight against violence.

Why men’s voices matter

Men often hold influential roles in families, communities, and workplaces. When men challenge toxic masculinity and speak out against violence, they help dismantle the culture that normalises abuse. Silence or indifference only allows violence to continue unchecked.

Sonke Gender Justice emphasises the importance of men redefining what it means to “be a man” promoting respect, equality, and non-violence as core values. This transformation is essential to building safer communities.

How men can actively challenge GBV

Listen and learn: Men should educate themselves about GBV, understand survivors’ experiences, and recognise the signs of abuse. Awareness is the first step to empathy and action.

Speak out against abuse: Whether in social circles, workplaces, or online, men can challenge sexist jokes, harmful language, and violent behaviour. Being an active bystander sends a strong message that GBV is unacceptable.

Model respectful relationships: Demonstrating equality, consent, and respect in personal relationships sets a positive example for others.

Support survivors: Believing and supporting survivors is vital. Men can offer practical help, encourage access to services, and fight stigma.

Engage in self-reflection: Men must examine their own attitudes and behaviours, seeking to unlearn patriarchal conditioning and embrace healthier masculinity.

Where to Get Help: Anger Management, Therapy & Men’s Programmes Near You

For men committed to change, several resources offer support:

·       Sonke Gender Justice: Visit www.genderjustice.org.za or call 011 339 3589 for information on programmes engaging men in preventing violence.

·       South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG): Toll-free helpline: 0800 12 13 14.

·       MenEngage South Africa: Contact via email: info@menengagesa.org or visit www.menengagesa.org for men’s support groups and workshops.

·       Anger Management Programmes: Many community health centres and private therapists offer courses. Inquire at your local clinic or counselling centre.

·       National Shelter Movement of South Africa: Offers support and information about GBV shelters and services: 011 484 4554

Ending GBV requires all of us to do our part. For too long, men’s silence has allowed violence to thrive unchecked. It is time for men to become allies, advocates, and active agents of change.

By speaking up, supporting survivors, and challenging harmful norms, men can help build a safer, more equitable South Africa, where justice for Olerato and many others is not just a hashtag, but a reality.

Asambeni Taxi Times encourages all men in our communities to step forward and be part of the solution.