// BBC WORLD NEWS — MONDO
The South African men trying to end violence against women: 'Every man needs to play a part'
Kgomotso Mathekga says a lack of male role models is fuelling violence against women in his neighbourhood
"I witness men hitting women all the time," says Kgomotso Mathekga, 30. "Especially when they are both drunk."
"I once had an argument with my girlfriend," he admits, "and I grabbed and slapped her."
Mathekga is speaking frankly during a gathering of men aimed at helping reduce the high levels of violence against women in South Africa.
The meeting is held in a narrow street in a Johannesburg informal settlement known as Organic Market. It is a maze of corrugated metal shacks and unpaved roads, close to Alexandra township.
"Now I feel pain," Mathekga continues. "We broke up and I no longer see my child. I feel like I've contributed to the problems in South Africa, instead of being the gentleman that I know I am."
At a nearby tavern, a group of men have pulled their chairs into a circle in the dust.
At the centre stands Itumeleng Stephen Tamaga, known locally as Bra Steve.
"Listen guys," Bra Steve says. "We must stand together to fight against gender-based violence and femicide."
Bra Steve is the local organiser of Father A Nation, a non-profit that works with men and boys to promote positive masculinity and help end violence against women.