DJs ask SA, business, government to back anti-rape campaign

Protests against rape are frequent in South Africa, and there are many support groups, but the scourge remains a massive problem and threat. Which is why Tribal Boyz is calling for anti-rape campaign Real Men Don’t Rape to replace national football Fridays.(Image: DFID - UK Department for International Development, via Wikimedia Commons)

"I know that if we all speak in one voice, those rapists will stop. We all need to stand up against rape. It is crippling the nation," Malatji said.

"We did it [spoke in one voice] in 2010, with soccer Fridays, and we can do the same with the rape campaign."

The Real Men Don't Rape campaign was launched in April and is aimed at changing attitudes of men and young boys about violent behaviour towards the opposite sex.

"The concept was influenced by rape stories we read daily," Malatji said. "For two years, we bought various newspapers and we cut off all rape stories."

The Limpopo-born singer said, as part of the campaign, Tribal Boyz printed "Real Men Don't Rape" on T-shirts. The duo wore the T-shirts when performing.

"We have even composed a song, [titled Real Men Don't Rape]," Malatji said.

They use music to spread messages that denounce violence against women and girls.

To spread their message, the musicians target places where young people go to have fun.

"We use nightclubs and festivals as a platform to create awareness."

The rape campaign has an entertainment and motivational aspect.

According to Malatji, Tribal Boyz normally give motivational talks in schools - including pre-schools.

"In pre-schools, we deal with young boys. We encourage them not to assault girls because they [girls] are precious," he said.

"We want the [anti-rape] song to stick like glue in their minds."

Malatji said when addressing grown men, Tribal Boyz spreads the message that beating a woman is a big sign of weakness.

Source: Sowetan, via I-Net Bridge