Cyclists, walkers and runners gathered at Sun City in the North West for the fifth annual Kasi Ride, an event aimed at raising awareness of gender based violence (GBV), mental health and overall wellness.
The event brings together participants and stakeholders around social issues affecting communities, with a focus on prevention, social cohesion and the role of sport in promoting well being.
The Kasi Ride is held in partnership with various stakeholders, including the North West Department of Sport, Arts and Culture.
North West MEC for Sport, Arts and Culture Wessels Morweng said the initiative was important in addressing gender based violence before it occurred, by encouraging men to reflect on the consequences of their actions.
“What is important with this programme is that we are dealing with the preventative aspect of gender based violence,” Morweng said.
He said the initiative sought to appeal to people’s minds and consciences to help men understand the devastating consequences of their actions on society.
Morweng also highlighted mental health as a key concern, particularly among men, pointing to suicide as an issue requiring attention.
“Stats indicate to us that men are hard hit as far as suicide is concerned,” he said.
He said events such as the Kasi Ride provided opportunities for people to come together, socialise and engage with the challenges men face, using sport as a platform for social cohesion.
The event’s focus on gender based violence prevention and mental health places sport within a broader community effort to encourage awareness, dialogue and healthier social relationships.
Through the annual gathering, organisers and participating stakeholders seek to use physical activity and interaction to engage communities on issues extending beyond sport itself.