In South Africa, however, families face multiple challenges including unemployment, poverty, gender-based violence, teenage pregnancy, HIV and AIDS, substance abuse, and absent parents. These challenges affect the capacity of families to remain cohesive and resilient.
As part of the launch, the Parenting Policy Benchmarking Report was unveiled to provide valuable insights into the effectiveness of current interventions. The report highlights areas where additional support is needed and offers guidance for strengthening families as safe, nurturing, and cohesive units capable of withstanding social and economic challenges.
Deputy Minister Mogamad Ganief Ebrahim Hendricks underscored the importance of addressing intergenerational trauma and rebuilding the family unit as the foundation of society.
He emphasised how parenting styles, mental health, and the institution of marriage have all been impacted in the long run by the historical breakdown of family structures.
To improve families and address social ills such as gender-based violence, Hendricks highlighted the importance of involving fathers and boys, reducing trauma, and strengthening community-level support.
