By Karabo Ntanzi
Mayibuye Cultural centre was hyped up last Friday when Pathways for Change facilitated a men’s dialogue in partnership with Grassroots, Operation Fiela, Galeshewe Community Policing Forum, National Prosecuting Authority and other related stakeholders.
Seithati Maboi, a Social Worker from Pathways for Change, said the objective is to create a “safe space” where men can talk and deal with their issues. “We offer men a platform to express themselves freely. She explained that there is no agenda; topics are unstructured, and delegates decide on what they want to discuss”.
She said a variety of issues are tackled at these gatherings ranging from men’s health, services offered.
According to Seithati, community involvement is vital when planning the event because they know the ethos, needs and available resources.
Activities include discussions (only men are allowed), Sexual and Reproductive Health Services, medical testing and screening for ailments such as TB and Blood Pressure.
To show appreciation for their efforts, delegates received a free haircut, light lunch, toiletries, and other essentials. Service providers such as barbers were sourced from the community as part of job creation.
This is the third installment within the Sol Plaatje Municipality and is gaining popularity. Pathways’ plan is to host two sessions per quarter.
Pathways for Change is funded by the Networking HIV & AIDS Community of Southern Africa (Nacosa). Their target is adolescents and young people between the ages of 15 and 24, both male and female. They provide sexual and reproductive services in secured spaces.
“The target group for these engagements is males between 24 and 40 years. Research shows that this age group is sexually involved, with females between 15 and 24 years old. Because the girls are vulnerable due to the pressure of wanting money and lifestyle”, elaborated Maboi.
Dux Lekwene from Mobile HIV Counseling and Testing (MHCT) focuses on Screening for HIV and TB, male medical circumcision, prevention and health education.
“Our services are open to all members of the society. We do counseling, diagnosis and refer to the nearest clinic. After that, we follow up after a few weeks. We encourage people to adhere to taking their treatment, especially those with chronic disease,” said Lekwene.
Tshiamo Modibedi, an enthusiastic candidate, was happy to know his status and intent to maintain it by protecting himself.
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