-in aid of stemming domestic violence
SOUTH African cross-over rock band, The Parlotones, is preparing to climb one the of world’s highest mountains to show their support for the global campaign to stop violence against women and girls.
They will climb Mount Kilimanjaro near the border between Tanzania and Kenya from March 5 to 9.
Sowetan has learnt that several other African celebrities from across the continent are due to be part of the effort.
The campaign is aimed at raising global awareness on ending violence against women and girls in Africa.
The group’s lead singer, Kahn Morbee, said he was shocked that in this 21st Century women still faced such challenges.
“This is very important to us, since it affects a lot of people in Africa. We are very excited to be part of the initiative, and are looking forward to it,” Morbee said.
In 2008, the United Nations launched the campaign with the overall objective of raising public awareness, and increasing political will and resources for fighting violence against women.
He said they had supported other causes too. “Previously, we participated in social responsibilities such as the SABC3 Carbon-Free Campaign.
“We performed in a 12-hour musical telethon Online to support relief efforts in Japan last year. We also support the fight against malaria, but we do not get time to focus on it because of our busy schedule.”
He said the group would soon start a training programme in preparation for climbing Kilimanjaro.
The Parlotones is made up of Glenn Hodgson, Paul Hodgson, Morbee, and Neil Pauw.
The group is set to release a fourth album, ‘Journey through the Shadows’, in April this year. (Sowetan)