Strengthening Community Safety and Development: An Initiative by Deputy President Paul Mashatile

Deputy President’s Participation in the 3rd National Men’s Parliament

Deputy President Paul Mashatile is scheduled to attend the 3rd National Men’s Parliament and inaugurate the Takuwani Riime Men’s Movement Programme of Action for 2023-2025. The event, set for 19th November 2023, represents a monumental stride towards social transformation. This significant development is directed towards amplifying community safety, population health, and socio-economic growth.

Recognized for his position as Chairperson of the South African National AIDS Council (SANAC), Deputy President Mashatile will contribute to the event located at Masia Village, in the Collins Chabane Local Municipality Vhembe, Limpopo Province. The prestigious event revolves around the theme of “Term of Community Men’s Parliaments,” echoing the powerful hashtag #MenChampioningChange. This call to action urges men to embrace leadership roles that instigate change in society.

Takuwani Riime: Men’s Movement Programme of Action

The Takuwani Riime Men’s Movement Programme of Action draws its name from the dynamic Tshivenda expression, “Takuwani Riime,” which means “Let Us Stand Up Together.” This slogan signifies more than just words; it encapsulates a passionate call to action. It encourages men from all walks of life to unite and contribute as organized partners in enhancing community safety, health, and socio-economic development within the country.

The forthcoming launch of this programme on 19th November will be a major benchmark for the Men’s Parliament. It will highlight their resolve and commitment to combating the ongoing threat of violence against women, spurring socio-economic growth, and advocating men’s health, with particular emphasis on HIV & GBV prevention.

Representatives from various sectors such as the government, labor, business, parliament, and civil society will come together at the event. This impressive convergence of thoughtful leaders and influencers is dedicated to instigating change and nurturing a safe, prosperous, and healthy community.

Event Highlights and Socio-economic Impact

The event is divided into three distinct sessions. The inaugural session is the Traditional men’s council at Masia Traditional Council, which lays the groundwork for the event. The second session applauds the work of non-profit organizations and acknowledges them with certificates of recognition. The concluding section marks the official programme and the commencement of the 2023-2025 Takuwani Riime Men’s movement programme of action.

This occasion is a reflection of South Africa’s dedication to addressing urgent societal challenges, fostering health and well-being, and stimulating socio-economic advancement through the power of unity, collective effort, and cooperation. This belief that societal change occurs when men “Stand Up Together” to question and alter the status quo is embodied in the event.

Apart from launching the Takuwani Riime Programme, the event also symbolizes dynamic collaborations and partnerships. The alliance of representatives from the government, labor, business, parliament, and civil society underlines the harmony required to solve societal problems and cultivate a common vision for a brighter future.

The slogan “Let Us Stand Up Together” – Takuwani Riime is not just a phrase; it’s a commitment, a promise adopted by the men of South Africa. The 3rd National Men’s Parliament and the Takuwani Riime Men’s Movement Programme of Action signify a substantial leap in this journey – a journey towards creating a safer, healthier, and more prosperous South Africa.

This historic event underscores the power of unity and the remarkable changes that can be realized when everyone unites for a shared cause. Let us take a moment to acknowledge the progress made in mobilizing men to advocate change and anticipate a future that nurtures the seeds of change planted today.