BY GCWALISILE MHLABANE
EZULWINI – With police statistics indicating that men account for 80 per cent of suicide cases in Eswatini, the “Mfowethu U-Grand?” men’s wellness seminar has called on men to prioritise their mental well-being and seek support before life’s pressures become overwhelming.
Held at Happy Valley Hotel in Ezulwini on July 4, 2026, the seminar brought together more than 150 men for meaningful conversations on mental health, fatherhood, financial management, emotional healing and building healthy relationships.
The event, organised by the Gogo and Slwane eSwatini Care Foundation, sought to create a safe space where men could openly discuss the challenges affecting their lives while equipping them with practical tools to become healthier individuals, fathers and community leaders.
Speaking in an interview on Eswatini TV News, Eswatini comedian and entertainer Mduduzi Nkambule known as Gogo Eswatini said the “Mfowethu U-Grand?” initiative was inspired by the growing emotional struggles facing men and the urgent need to create safe spaces where they can openly discuss their challenges without fear of judgment.
“We are looking at the level of tolerance. Looking at this level, we see that a cry for tolerance was raised because there is a vulnerability beneath it. This vulnerability is asking us to gather these men and address it, so they can live fully as they journey through life,” Nkambule said.
He said the increasing prevalence of gender-based violence and other social challenges demonstrated the need to intentionally invest in men’s emotional well-being.
“When I look at the level of tolerance, I see that about three-quarters of Swazis are struggling, and GBV cases are very high. We want them to find shelter and spaces where they can speak out and address these issues. These platforms for men are far too small. That is why comedians in Eswatini and all emaSwati have been invited to bring men back together and ask one question: ‘Mfowethu, u-grand?'” he said.
Throughout the seminar, participants engaged in discussions on the importance of fathers taking an active role in their families, overcoming childhood trauma, developing emotional resilience and strengthening interpersonal relationships. They were encouraged to recognise the impact that unresolved emotional pain can have on individuals, families and communities, and to embrace healing as an essential part of becoming better men.
The seminar also highlighted the importance of financial literacy and planning, with discussions focusing on responsible money management, saving for emergencies and preparing for unexpected life events that can place significant pressure on families.
Organisers further emphasised the role of positive mentorship and encouraged men to support one another by creating environments where honest conversations about mental health can take place without stigma.
The discussions also drew attention to findings from organisations working to combat sexual violence, which indicate that 87 per cent of violence occurs within the home, underscoring the need to strengthen families by addressing the emotional and social challenges facing men.
Participants described the seminar as an eye-opening experience that provided practical guidance for navigating life’s challenges while reinforcing the importance of checking in on one another.
With men’s mental health increasingly becoming a national concern, the “Mfowethu U-Grand?” initiative is expected to continue fostering conversations that encourage men to seek help early, support one another and build healthier families and communities.
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