Online Reporter
Solomon Bhumu
Post Reporter
THE Zimbabwe Gender Commission (ZGC), in collaboration with multiple stakeholders, is taking significant strides to engage men and boys as key allies in the push for gender equality.
This year’s 2025 Male Engagement Symposium, held in Mutare under the theme “Accelerating Male Involvement in Gender Equality Issues” marked the bold step toward integrating male voices into the national gender dialogue.
Convened during men’s health awareness month, the symposium brought together men from community, public, and private sectors to discuss critical issues such as mental health, reproductive rights, emotional well-being, and role of masculinity in a changing society.
ZGC chairperson, Commissioner Ms Margaret Mukahanana Sangarwe said gender equality is not just a women’s concern.
“It is important to address the common misconception that the term ‘gender’ only applies to women. This event clearly affirms that gender equality is not solely a women’s concern, but a societal matter that impacts everyone,” she said, adding that understanding men’s realities is key to progress.
“We are aware of the pressures many men experience emotional struggles, health concerns, or adapting to changing family and social expectations. Creating open forums for them to speak and be heard is a step forward,” she added.
The event also tackled the ongoing substance abuse crisis, especially among young males aged between 16 and 35 years.
Substances such as crystal meth and marijuana have led to increased cases of violence, mental illness, and incarceration.
Testimonies shared at the event, including one from recovering addict and former ZBC reporter Mr Oscar Pambuka, highlighted the pressing need for community-driven interventions.
“It all began after a divorce – I started smoking cigarettes, then moved to marijuana, and eventually crystal meth, trying to escape the pain. In 2023, I was arrested and taken for rehabilitation, where I was detoxified from all substances. I urge other young men and boys not to follow the same path I did,” said Mr Pambuka.
Initiatives also targeted men’s health-seeking behaviour. Reports from the World Health Organization shows that men in Zimbabwe are less likely than women to access HIV testing, treatment, or general health services.
To address this, symposium participants benefited from male-targeted health screenings, counselling services, and mental health support through partnerships with Discovery Ambulance Services and various service providers.
The commission collaborates closely with women’s rights organizations and has established memoranda of understanding with the majority of them. ZGC has also formalised partnerships with male-led organizations such as Padare, Men4equality, and Fathers Against Abuse.
These partnerships will support ZGC’s ongoing efforts to engage men in combating gender-based violence, addressing mental health challenges, and promoting societal transformation towards gender equality.
