In South Africa, the alarming intersection of Gender-Based Violence and Femicide and mental health issues has prompted urgent action and dialogue. Generation Gender South Africa (Gen G) has launched the #WearYourSupport campaign to address this pressing issue head-on. Launched in May, the campaign seeks not only to raise awareness but also to challenge deeply entrenched societal norms surrounding masculinity and emotional expression.
The Grim Reality of Gender-Based Violence
South Africa is facing an alarming rise in Gender-Based Violence (GBV), ranking among the highest globally for such incidents. Recent statistics are frightening, revealing that a woman is murdered every three hours due to GBV-related violence. In 2021 alone, the South African Police Service (SAPS) documented over 50,000 sexual offences, a stark indicator of the extensive and systemic nature of this crisis. These harrowing numbers highlight the pressing need for immediate and transformative measures aimed at preventing further loss of life and safeguarding vulnerable individuals in our communities.
A particularly tragic case that has captured public attention recently is that of twenty-two-year-old Sinenhlanhla Mathonsi, a dedicated employee of Pick ‘n Pay. Sinenhlanhla’s life was cruelly cut short when she was stabbed while on duty at a branch located in Protea Glen, Soweto. Reports indicate that her partner, Anele Kula, is allegedly responsible for this horrific act of violence. He was arrested the same day of the incident and has since faced the judicial system, where he opted to abandon bail, resulting in his continued detention.
This heartbreaking incident serves as another painful reminder of the urgent need for systemic change to combat GBV in South Africa effectively. Organisations like Generation Gender South Africa are at the forefront of this fight, actively working to empower communities and educate individuals about the importance of gender equality and safety. As communities rally together to mourn the loss of victims like Sinenhlanhla, it becomes increasingly evident that collective action, heightened accountability, and community engagement are crucial components in the ongoing battle to protect women.
Generation Gender South Africa’s initiatives focus on fostering dialogue, raising awareness, and promoting advocacy, ensuring that the voices of those affected by GBV are heard and prioritised. Their work aligns perfectly, intending to ensure safety in all spaces, whether public or private, making it a priority as society strives to create a safer environment for everyone. By mobilising communities and encouraging proactive measures, Generation Gender South Africa continues to play a vital role in transforming the landscape of gender-based violence in the nation.
The Hidden Struggle of Men’s Mental Health
Amidst this grim landscape, there exists a dangerous stigma surrounding men’s mental health in South Africa. Many men feel compelled to suppress their emotions, contributing to a cycle of silence and isolation. This silence can exacerbate feelings of hopelessness, leading to increased risks of violence, including against partners. Research shows that men struggling with untreated mental health issues are at a higher risk of engaging in aggressive behaviour (World Health Organization, 2021).
In South Africa, the situation is particularly alarming, with men being more likely to die by suicide compared to women. According to the South African Medical Research Council, between 2014 and 2016, the suicide rate for men was approximately 16.8 per 100,000, demonstrating a pressing need for mental health support and intervention (South African Medical Research Council, 2016). These statistics highlight the urgent need to address mental health issues among men and break the cycle of stigma that prevents many from seeking help.
Understanding the connection between men’s mental health and the ongoing threat of gender-based violence (GBV) is crucial in addressing the root causes of this violence. South Africa has been dealing with a mental health crisis, particularly among men, and several factors contribute to this issue:
- Socioeconomic Factors: One significant contributor to men’s mental health issues in South Africa is the high unemployment rate. According to Statistics South Africa, the unemployment rate for youth aged 15 to 24 stood at 50.3% in the first quarter of 2015. A decade later, it has risen to 62,4%. Among those aged 25 to 34, the rate increased from 31.4% to 40.4% over the same period, with young men at 36.7% in the first quarter of 2025. This economic strain can lead to feelings of inadequacy and increased stress, which can exacerbate mental health problems.
- Substance Abuse: Substance abuse is another critical factor. The World Health Organization notes that the alcohol-attributable mortality was heaviest among men, accounting for 2 million deaths compared to 600,000 deaths among women, in 2019. This can lead to various mental health disorders. This cycle of addiction and mental health issues can be particularly harmful, as it may lead to additional violent behaviour, which includes GBVF.
- Cultural Expectations: Cultural norms surrounding masculinity often discourage men from expressing emotions or seeking help for mental health issues. Men usually feel pressured to conform to traditional masculine ideals, leading them to suppress their feelings and ultimately harming their mental health.
Initiatives like #WearYourSupport aim to foster a culture where vulnerability among men is viewed as a strength rather than a weakness. By redefining perceptions of masculinity, this campaign offers a platform for men to openly discuss their emotions and support one another in a society that often demands silence. Addressing these mental health issues and promoting supportive environments can be significant steps toward reducing GBV and improving men’s overall well-being.
A Call to Change: The Campaign’s Vision
The #WearYourSupport campaign is a clarion call for a transformative shift in how society perceives male strength and emotional expression. It encourages men to embrace their vulnerabilities as a pathway to healing. At the forefront of this initiative are champions like Sizolwenkosi Mordecai Ndlovu, who has hosted an event named “Men in Solidarity Against GBV” on 15 May 2025 in Tembisa, uniting community leaders and empowering participants to combat gender-based violence. “I believe this campaign is crucial in sparking meaningful conversations and driving change. By addressing men’s mental health and GBVF together, we can create a more nuanced understanding of these interconnected issues,” Sizolwenkosi asserts.
Neo Iyana Masilela, another passionate advocate, will moderate a community dialogue on May 22, 2025, in Orange Farm. Her efforts to amplify the campaign through storytelling and media engagement focus on creating spaces where men can share their struggles without judgment. “I hope that the campaign encourages more honest dialogue among men and inspires supportive spaces where vulnerability is seen as strength,” Neo emphasises, aiming to dismantle the stigma that often surrounds such discussions.
Engaging the Community: Events and Initiatives
Gen G’s approach is multifaceted, featuring a range of online and in-person events designed to engage the community actively. A pivotal part of this campaign includes a Clothing Drive, allowing participants to donate items while promoting unity and compassion. This drive represents more than just a charitable action; it’s about forging connections among diverse individuals who share the goals of addressing GBV and advancing mental health awareness.
The campaign’s broader goal is to cultivate a supportive environment where conversations about mental health can flourish, thereby mitigating the risk factors associated with GBV. By hiking together, participants symbolise their commitment to standing against violence while nurturing emotional well-being.
The Way Forward: A Society of Support and Understanding
As South Africa continues to grapple with the complexities of GBVF, initiatives like the #WearYourSupport campaign are crucial in reshaping perceptions and fostering emotional openness among men. It calls on everyone to reflect on their role in combating GBVF and supporting those affected by it. The campaign strongly urges individuals to share their stories using the hashtag #WearYourSupport on social media, amplifying voices that often go unheard.
In addressing both mental health and GBV, the campaign positions itself as a necessary movement for societal change, aiming for a future where vulnerability is embraced and mutual support empowers communities against violence.
References
- Press release: ACTIVATE! Change Drivers & Generation G. (2025, 7 May). Launch of the #WearYourSupport campaign.
- South African Police Service (SAPS). (2021). “Crime statistics.” (https://www.saps.gov.za/services/crimestats.php )
- World Health Organization. (2021). “Violence against women prevalence estimates, 2018.” https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/violence-against-women)
- Statistics South Africa: (2025) South Africa’s Youth in Labour Market – A Decade in Review (http://www.statssa.gov.za)
- World Health Organization. (2024). “Alcohol Key Facts, 2024.”
(https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/alcohol )
- Gender-Based Violence and Health: A Research Agenda. Global Health Action, 2021. (https://www.tandfonline.com/journals/zgha20 )
About the author
Phumzile Zwane is a member of the Activate Change Drivers Writers Hub who is passionate about writing and editing. With a background in Digital Marketing and Communications, she is committed to empowering young people and fostering positive change in her community. Phumzile is dedicated to educating and uplifting others, striving to make a significant impact through her passion for content creation and belief in the next generation’s potential.