1 in 4 South African men have raped someone

"One in four South African men questioned in a survey said they had raped someone, and nearly half admitted having attacked more than one victim.

The study, by the country's Medical Research Council, also found three out of four who admitted rape had attacked for the first time during their teens.

It said practices such as gang rape were common because they were considered a form of male bonding.

...

Using an electronic device to keep the results anonymous, the study found that 73% of respondents said they had carried out their first assault before the age of 20.

Almost half who said they had carried out a rape admitted they had done so more than once..."

From BBC News, Thursday June 18th 2009. Click on link below for full article.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/africa/8107039.stm

The result of this study is shocking to say the least. As an African, I am embarrassed for our continent. As a woman, I am outraged.

My question is why, oh! why.

Why is rape such an epidemic in South Africa? Is there any rational explanation for such behavior? Are the roots of the epidemic, cultural, historical, superstitious beliefs, the lack of laws when it comes to abuse towards women, else?

Is anything being done to resolve this problem?

This is a brainstorming session, so put in your two cents.