Male personalities speak against gender violence

HUNDREDS of Capetonians flocked to the streets yesterday to join the march against gender-based violence, which coincided with International Men’s Day.

Various South African male personalities took part in the march to show support against the prevalence of gender violence.

Retired soccer player Matthew Booth had a message for all men.

“It is time for no excuses. We are a nation of policy makers but not implementation,” he said.

“Take the message home today – there is no excuse for violence.”

Cape Town City FC head coach Benni McCarthy thanked the crowd for braving the Cape Town heat to attend the march.

“There is no excuse for men to beat women and children. Men‚ let us be the example the country needs‚” McCarthy said.

South African Aids Council chief executive Sandile Buthelezi urged all men to get tested for HIV to stop the proliferation of the virus.

The march concluded at parliament, where a memorandum was handed over to a representative.

Sports presenter Robert Marawa read out the list of demands.

“We need to end gender-based violence and all forms of violence.

“Men need to mobilise to strengthen civil society.

“We live in a time of femicide especially affecting women from poor households.

“Everyone has a right to a safe environment.” – Petru Saal