Engaging men to reduce violence against women and children, prevent the spread of HIV/AIDS and promote health, care and support to orphans and vulnerable children in Nkandla, KwaZulu-Natal and Mhlontlo, Eastern Cape: Phase II

Progress Report November 2007 – March 2009

Since November 2006, Sonke has implemented a ground-breaking two-phased ‘demonstration’ project on gender and parenting in 2 municipalities in rural KwaZulu-Natal and the Eastern Cape with funding from UNICEF. The project was carried out in two sites where violence levels are high – Nkandla, KwaZulu-Natal, and OR Tambo, Eastern Cape. Phase I of the project took place between November 2006 and August 2007. Phase II of the project built on baseline research conducted during Phase I, as well as Sonke’s proven experience and success of involving men in HIV/AIDS and violence prevention programmes.

The project had two primary objectives. Firstly, it aimed to increase men’s involvement, not only in the lives of their own children, but also in ensuring that children in general, and orphans and vulnerable children in particular, have access to essential care and support. As such, the project has encouraged men to play an active role in making sure that children are able to access child grants, attend school and have their psycho-social and educational needs met. Secondly, the project aimed to build men’s capacity to become actively involved in eliminating violence against women and children, preventing the spread of HIV and AIDS and promoting gender equality.

This report provides a brief overview of key achievements during Phase II of the demonstration project in Nkandla, KwaZulu-Natal, and Mthlontlo, Eastern Cape, along with a tables presenting data for both sites, matching the objectives and indicators against targets achieved.

Sonke end of project narrative report to UNICEF May 2009

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