KWAMHLANGA — Men from across Thembisile Hani Local Municipality gathered at the KwaMhlanga Community Hall on Friday, 05 June 2026, for the iScamtho SamaJita Men's Talk workshop, where stakeholders encouraged open discussions on mental health, responsible fatherhood, financial wellbeing and the fight against gender-based violence (GBV).
Hosted by Thembisile Hani Local Municipality, the workshop brought together representatives from the Department of Health, the South African Police Service (SAPS), the National Credit Regulator, the South African Municipal Workers' Union (SAMWU), traditional leaders, church leaders and legal practitioners to address challenges affecting men, families and communities.
Discussions focused on responsible fatherhood, communication within families, men's health and mental wellness, debt management, legal rights, workplace accountability and the role of men in preventing GBV.
Opening the workshop, Municipal Manager Dumisani Mahlangu welcomed the strong turnout from different wards across the municipality.
“We are pleased to see so many men participating in this dialogue. The purpose of this workshop is to break the silence surrounding the challenges men face and to help build better men who can contribute positively to society,” said Mahlangu.
He added that support services are available for residents struggling with depression and other social challenges.
“There are relevant support structures available to assist people facing difficulties in life. Residents can approach Social Development offices, where social workers are available to provide assistance,” he said.
SAMWU Secretary Ngwatu Maseremula addressed the issue of mental health and the stigma often associated with seeking help.
“Men should learn to speak out when something is troubling them and move away from the belief that men do not cry. That stigma has contributed to the loss of many good men in society,” he said.
Educational Communications Officer Alfred Matsimbi from the National Credit Regulator highlighted the financial pressures faced by many men.
“Many men fall into debt because they are unemployed but still feel pressured to provide for their families. Unemployment is a major factor that affects men’s self-esteem and financial stability,” said Matsimbi.
Attorney Nyaniso Mzuzu spoke about legal rights and gender-based violence.
“Men also have the right to open cases against partners who fail to contribute to the support of their children. Raising a child is a shared responsibility that requires the participation of both parents,” said Mzuzu.
She added that men who experience abuse should not hesitate to seek assistance.
“GBV does not affect women alone. Men can also be victims of abuse and have the right to report such incidents and seek legal assistance,” she said.
Clinical Mental Health Psychologist Dr Puleng Benjamin Morena stressed the importance of emotional expression and seeking support when facing challenges.
“When men keep everything inside and never speak about what hurts them, it can have a serious impact on their mental health. Speaking out is not a weakness; it is the first step towards healing and becoming mentally strong for your family,” said Morena.
Pastor Happy Sibanyoni of Latter Rain Community Church encouraged men to remain accountable and present in their children's lives.
“As a man, be accountable and be a father figure to your children regardless of what you are going through. Your children need your presence more than your perfection. Lead them with love, discipline and integrity,” he said.
Representatives from the Department of Health and SAPS also engaged participants on men's wellness, free health screenings, community safety and the importance of taking a stand against domestic violence.
Participants said the workshop provided practical guidance and direct access to support services. Many also welcomed the involvement of traditional leaders, saying their participation would strengthen the message within communities.
The municipality said the iScamtho SamaJita programme would continue as part of its social development and GBV prevention initiatives and encouraged residents to follow municipal notices for future events.
The workshop concluded with a call for men to lead with accountability, respect and service in their homes, workplaces and communities.
