The Commission for Gender Equality is holding a roundtable discussion in Durban on Tuesday to explore potential solutions to the ongoing gender-based violence (GBV) crisis in KwaZulu-Natal. The event, set to take place at the Hilton Garden Inn in uMhlanga, will bring together men from across the province to engage in a conference focused on addressing the issue and finding practical remedies.
Javu Baloyi, a representative of the commission, highlighted the concerning rise in GBV cases in KZN, with police reporting that at least 110 women were killed by their partners since October.
“We have seen a disturbing trend in KZN, with many men killing their partners. This is why it is crucial for the Commission for Gender Equality to facilitate this conference, to foster constructive dialogue on GBV, its root causes, and the importance of promoting healthy masculinity,” said Baloyi.
Baloyi stressed that men must play a key role in combating gender-based violence, not just in KwaZulu-Natal but across South Africa. “As a commission, we believe that men are integral to the solution in tackling GBV and dismantling harmful cultural norms,” he added.
The roundtable discussion aims to shift mindsets and encourage a collective effort to reduce GBV in the province and nationwide.