A Call to Men to End Gender-Based Violence
At a time when South Africa and the African continent continue to grapple with unacceptably high levels of gender-based violence (GBV), creatives are being called upon to do more than observe; they are being called to act.
AfroSoul has answered that call with the release of “Madoda Hlanganani,” a powerful, emotionally charged song featuring multi-award-winning hip-hop artist Zakwe. Born out of deep concern and collective pain, the song is a response to the ongoing abuse, violation, and killing of women and children across our communities.
“After witnessing the alarming increase in violence against women and children on our continent, we made a conscious decision as creatives to take action,” says AfroSoul. “We took out our pens, locked ourselves in the studio, and created Madoda Hlanganani as a cry for help, and a direct call to men to stand up, speak out, and protect.”
“After witnessing the alarming increase in violence against women and children on our continent, we made a conscious decision as creatives to take action,” says AfroSoul. “We took out our pens, locked ourselves in the studio, and created Madoda Hlanganani as a cry for help, and a direct call to men to stand up, speak out, and protect.
”Translated loosely as “Men Unite”, Madoda Hlanganani confronts the culture of silence, entitlement, and toxic masculinity that often enables violence. The song speaks directly to men, urging accountability, solidarity, and conscious action to end all forms of gender-based violence, including violent killings, sexual assault, and physical abuse.
Zakwe’s contribution adds urgency and gravity to the message, blending sharp lyricism with social consciousness and reinforcing the idea that GBV is not a “women’s issue” but a societal crisis that demands male leadership and intervention.
Madoda Hlanganani is not just a song; it is a call to action. AfroSoul and Zakwe are calling on communities, organisations, media platforms, and individuals to use the song as a tool for dialogue, education, and mobilisation against GBV.
The song is now available on all digital platforms.Let us stand together. Let us speak together.
Let us end gender-based violence.
Nono Matuwane
Soweto Sunrise News
