Call for action
Chilling ‘rape capital of the world’
SA’s reputation as the “rape capital of the world” is a chilling reminder of the pervasive nature of GBV, with over 43,000 reported cases of rape last year alone. Yet, these statistics merely scratch the surface.
It’s Time to Man Up and prevent GBV at its core!’
“While the slight decrease is somewhat encouraging, various factors can impact these nominal fluctuations, and we must never lose sight of the real-life impact on these women, their children, families, and society at large,” says Craig Wilkinson, Founder and CEO of Father A Nation”.
Wilkinson has highlighted a critical need for substantial and sustainable reductions in GBV cases. He further asserts that genuine progress necessitates an ongoing focus on addressing the root causes of GBV. There should be a particular focus on boys and men before they succumb to toxic masculinity. He said, that you cannot just treat the symptoms, but you must deal with the cause.
“While most physical and sexual abuse is perpetrated by men; no boy is born an abuser. Healthy masculinity needs to be taught and modelled so that toxic masculinity is stopped in its tracks. SA must focus on prevention to build a nation of men who value and respect women,” says Wilkinson.
Teaching and inspiring boys and men
Natural born protectors
Wilkinson says as a country, leaders must address the issues that prevent men from being able to conduct themselves as the natural-born protectors, builders, and fathers that they are. He says this means teaching men to use their strength only for good and holding them accountable for their actions.
