Men’s Indaba aims to address mental health and suicide prevention

The City of Righteousness International Church is set to host their inaugural Men’s Indaba Meeting, creating a safe space for men to openly discuss issues affecting them.

The dialogue, scheduled for May 10th at the church’s Gwabalanda premises, aims to address the rising cases of male suicides in the country, often resulting from domestic disputes, financial challenges, bullying, and stigmatization.These social constraints often lead to depression, which can ultimately result in suicide.

Apostle Joseph Mankunzini Moyo, the host, urged men to attend, emphasizing that the event will be a socio-educational dialogue rather than a church setup.

“We are currently facing serious cases of suicides amongst men. The main reason being that we have been told and taught ukuthi indoda kayikhali (that a man never cries). So this initiative is set to finding reasons why we as men are opting for short cuts in life (death). Once we’ve spoken out, then we want to take a step further into providing solutions,” Moyo said.

The initiative aims to provide a platform for men to socialize, share experiences, and offer advice. The event will feature lawyers, community leaders, influential individuals, and elderly men sharing wisdom on overcoming life’s challenges.

Moyo added, “There is need to apply for land in Gwabalanda where we can conduct money-generating projects like piggery, cattle specifically for men so that every member who joins the program can on month-end benefit from the profits made.”

Emakhandeni Luveve Constituency Member of Parliament, Discent Bajila welcomed the initiative that will be held in his constituency.

“It’s a very good initiative and we welcome that it will be hosted in Gwabalanda which is part of Emakhandeni Luveve Constituency,” said Bajila.

A Gwabalanda resident Zibusiso Khumalo also echoed Bajila’s sentiments.

“Men are suffering, a lot and most of them prefer not to talk about their struggles, this is a perfect opportunity for us to meet and discuss what’s troubling us, we will definitely get help from others who’ve been through our current problems,” Khumalo said.

The program is set to kick off at 14:00 for a two-hour and 30-minute session.