Positive, consistent fatherhood and the presence of male role models are being positioned as critical, preventative tools in tackling South Africa's high rates of violence. With over 60% of South African children growing up without their biological fathers, initiatives such as the Heartlines Fathers Matter
campaign highlight that "social fathers"—uncles, grandfathers, and mentors—are essential in modeling non-violent behavior, empathy, and emotional control for the next generation. That’s what we’re discussing this evening in our After 8 segment as we look to unpack the role of fathers and father figures in reducing violent behaviour in the country.