MTG Features in UNESCO’S Latest Publication “Mens voices”

By Mwanakombo Hassan

Kenya loses an estimated KSh 41 billion (approximately USD 265 million) annually due to gender-based violence (GBV) through healthcare costs, lost productivity, and premature mortality (Nation Africa). Addressing this urgent issue requires engaging all members of society, including men and boys, as active partners in the fight against GBV.

Since 2016, Moving The Goalposts (MTG) has intentionally worked with boys and men as a key strategy to prevent GBV against women and girls. Through our flagship program, Young Men as Equal Partners (YMEP), MTG has strengthened partnerships with men and boys, nurturing positive masculinities and community leadership that champions prevention, reporting, and risk mitigation. The program has empowered male leaders and community members in Kilifi and Kwale counties to actively engage in promoting gender equality and supporting girls and women in their communities.

“Being a man is nurturing, listening, and leading by example. Let us stand with our children, choose equality, and build a safer, more united society and Kenya,” said Abdalla Mohamed, YMEP Coach in Mteza.
MTG’s work through YMEP is featured in UNESCO’s latest publication, “Men’s Voices”, which highlights the impact of engaging men and boys in advancing gender equality.

Key insights from the publication include:
• Engaging men and boys is essential for achieving gender equality
• Positive masculinities can shift societal norms and reduce gender-based violence
• Stories and experiences from men show practical ways to promote equality in communities
• Collaboration across sectors is necessary to transform mindsets and create sustainable change
The feature recognizes MTG’s commitment to empowering men and boys as champions against GBV and underscores the critical role male allies play in building safer and more inclusive communities.

Download the full publication here: https://www.unesco.org/en/articles/unescos-transforming-mentalities-mens-voices-gender-equality?forms_steps=articles&step=step_2&instance_id=358c471c-95eb-4914-b2b3-816a116905cd

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