The latest crime statistics have painted a bleak picture of the Thohoyandou area, which continues to record the highest incidents of gender-based violence (GBV) in the region.
In response, two popular social-media personalities from Vhembe, Mr Dziedzi Luvhengo (Dziedzi) and Mr Avhashoni Ramalivhana, known as Bishop Ngilimane Ya Tadulu, have used their influence to bring men together for a GBV dialogue.
The event, held on 16 June at Mandis Place in Dzanani, drew a large crowd and was addressed by several prominent figures and experts.
Ramalivhana, a security officer at a local hospital, said witnessing the suffering of GBV victims daily had motivated him to act. "It pains me to see police vans bringing abused women and children to the trauma centre. I realised something had to be done. As men, we face many challenges and often bottle things up, which can lead to violence. But when we open up and share, we can find better solutions," he said.
Luvhengo said it was time to use their platforms to help tackle GBV. "We keep people entertained with our jokes, but we also have a responsibility to help stop this scourge. We roped in experts to speak to men, and the event was an overwhelming success," he said.
Although entry was free, men were asked to bring sanitary towels, which will be distributed to those in need. "We've already seen the positive impact, and we urge men not to miss the next gathering," Luvhengo added.