On the 4th of May, Banna Buang Free State Men’s Forum was officially invited by the Office of the Premier to participate in the “Justice for Women, End GBVF” event held in Smithfield, Free State.
Despite the physical exhaustion from their long and demanding awareness walk from Bloemfontein to Matatiele, activists Nicolase Lesapo and Archie Phinithi made the effort to attend and contribute to the important conversation around Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF).
In his speech, Archie Phinithi commended the Eastern Cape Government, particularly Matatiele Municipality and the SAPS, for the exceptional support and protection they provided during their walk.
“The Eastern Cape government showed leadership. They didn’t wait to be begged, they responded and acted. I hope the Free State government will follow this example and support activists fighting for justice,” he said.
Phinithi also issued a strong warning to perpetrators hiding behind culture and faith. “Traditional doctors and fake pastors who exploit women under the guise of spiritual healing—bathing them, touching them—must stop. It is abuse, not healing,” he emphasized.
He further made a bold call-out to older women who pursue young boys (commonly referred to as “Ben-10s”), calling it what it truly is—statutory rape.
“If we call out men who prey on young girls, we must also call out women who do the same to our boys. This Ben-10 culture must fall, it’s rape, and we need to protect our sons too.” Phinithi added.
The forum reiterated that their walk for justice is not for fame or recognition but a strategic and personal sacrifice to bring lasting awareness and accountability in cases of GBV and Femicide.
For inquiries or interviews, contact: Banna Buang FS Men’s Forum Coordinator, email: info@bannabuang.co.za or call 073 579 9121.
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