Could a Department of Men Redefine Masculinity and End Sexual Violence?

A call to action has emerged regarding the urgent need to address sexual offenses against women and children, with a focus on men as the key to combating the issue. Reverend Manasa Kolivuso, a pastor from the Christian Mission Fellowship, has highlighted the overwhelming statistic that 99 percent of perpetrators are men, urging stakeholders to adopt a proactive approach rather than a reactive one.

Kolivuso advocates for the establishment of a ‘Department of Men’ dedicated to guiding men in acknowledging their role in the problem and taking responsibility for it. He criticized the tendency to place blame on others, stating that such behavior hinders progress in solving issues related to sexual violence.

The pastor emphasized the need for a crucial shift in perspective, advocating for preventative measures aimed at addressing the root cause of the problem. “If we continue to do the same things while expecting a different outcome, it is called insanity,” he noted. He proposed that the movement should prioritize men who commit these crimes, stating that only then can tangible progress be made.

During a recent symposium organized by the Ministry of Women, Children and Social Protection, Kolivuso expressed his firm belief that society must work to redefine what it means to be a man. He contrasted the actions of ‘males’ who engage in violence and abuse with those of ‘real men’ who do not, calling for a cultural transformation that promotes positive masculinity.

Kolivuso expressed hope that his proposal would foster ongoing public dialogue and become part of the national discourse on this critical issue. Despite well-meaning initiatives and policies to tackle violence, he pointed out that the problem continues to escalate, highlighting the necessity for a focused effort to change societal attitudes towards masculinity and prevent further offenses.

Urging a collective response, he called for a movement that teaches men to embody the values of respect and responsibility, thus nurturing a safer environment for all.