A group of concerned men from certain areas around Gugulethu embarked on a clean-up initiative to show their appreciation of women in society.
The men from NY111, 114 and 133 opted to clean their streets as part of the Women’s Day celebrations on Tuesday 9 August. The men described the role played by women as important, yet less valued.
Tandi Qavane, NY111 resident, described Women’s Day as a historic day in the national calendar. He urged the men to play an active role in society and in women’s lives to show their appreciation.
Qavane added that like their 1956 counterparts, women continue to play a crucial role in society.
“This is a sign of honouring and expressing our gratitude to all the women for raising and taking care of us (men) till now. We also thank them for their role that they are playing in their families by keeping the houses warm all the time” he stated.
Qavane said the campaign was the first of its kind, but they are hoping to do more.
One of the participants Xolisa Pasiya from NY133 urged men to stop abusing women and children. He said women need to be protected all the time.
“We are saying no to gender-based violence. No to any kind of abuse. Enough is enough,” said Pasiya.