From November 25th to 28th, 2025, the Southern African Development Community (SADC) hosted a critical workshop in Cape Town, South Africa, aimed at fostering engagement among men and boys in key social issues. This event, supported by the African Union Development Agency-NEPAD (AUDA-NEPAD), the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS), UN Women, Miet Africa, and Sonke Gender Justice, saw significant participation from the Southern Africa Youth Forum (SAYoF).
The workshop served as a platform for diverse stakeholders, including civil society members, governmental representatives, and youth advocates, to exchange insights and strategies for effectively involving men and boys in promoting gender equality. The initiative sought to enhance regional capacities to combat Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and HIV/AIDS while advancing Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR).
Several key aspects emerged during the discussions. Emphasis was placed on creating partnerships that enable men and boys to challenge harmful gender norms. The goal is to transform traditional views of masculinity into a force for positive change, encouraging them to become advocates for gender equality and health rights. Participants highlighted successful strategies for preventing GBV and HIV. Actively engaging men in preventive measures, regions have witnessed notable reductions in violence and HIV infection rates.
The need to address the knowledge gap regarding SRHR among men and boys was underscored. The workshop provided a forum for educators and healthcare professionals to discuss tailored outreach programs that resonate with young males, enhancing their understanding of these vital issues. The involvement of SAYoF highlighted the necessity of empowering younger generations. Youth representatives shared their insights on effectively engaging peers in critical conversations about gender equality and health.
The conference marked the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence Campaign. Ms. Kelly Dambuza-Chifani, the GBV Programme Officer at the SADC Secretariat Gender Unit, emphasized that this initiative is a vital global call to combat Gender-Based Violence. For 2025, the campaign’s theme is “Ending Digital Violence Against Women and Girls,” underscoring the urgent need to address all forms of violence.
Ms. Dambuza-Chifani stressed that tackling this issue demands collaboration from everyone—men, women, boys, and girls alike. Recognizing the importance of this campaign period, SADC aims to amplify regional voices and foster cooperation with men and boys to advance gender equality, prevent GBV and HIV, and enhance sexual and reproductive health rights throughout the SADC region. Together, we can make a difference.
The workshop’s outcomes aim to significantly influence policies and programs across the SADC region, reinforcing efforts to mobilize men and boys as allies in the fight against GBV and HIV. The ideas and strategies discussed are expected to contribute to broader regional efforts to promote inclusive socio-economic development and optimize the demographic dividend.
