MoGCSP CONVENES NATIONAL MEN’S CONFERENCE TO ADVANCE GENDER EQUALITY

Ghana has taken a significant step in strengthening its fight against Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) with a National Men’s Conference on Positive Masculinity, organized by the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection (MoGCSP) in collaboration with UNFPA.

Held on Friday, 12th December 2025, the conference brought together policymakers, Members of Parliament, traditional and faith leaders, transport unions, civil society organizations, development partners, academia, and the media to examine the role of men in shaping a just and equitable society.

In her keynote address, the Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection, Dr. Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, emphasized that men and boys are central actors in the fight against SGBV. She noted that promoting positive masculinity benefits both men and women by dismantling harmful norms that limit emotional expression, fuel violence, and create unsafe environments at home and in communities.

The Minister highlighted government led initiatives advancing gender equality, including the Affirmative Action (Gender Equity) Act, the Social Protection Act, Men and Boys Clubs, mentorship programs, Domestic Violence Response Centres in markets, and digital support systems such as the Orange Support Centre and Boame App.

“This conference sets the stage for a national conversation on rethinking masculinity,” she said. “Positive masculinity empowers men to lead with empathy, responsibility, and respect, helping build safer families and peaceful communities.”

UNFPA Resident Representative, Dr. Wilfred Ochan, commended the government for championing a dialogue aligned with UNFPA’s global male engagement agenda, noting that cultural, religious, and traditional gender norms can be transformed to promote dignity and equality.

Representing the Chief of Staff, Hon. Elvis Afriyie Ankrah, Presidential Envoy for Interfaith and Ecumenical Bodies, emphasized that every act of gender-based violence “weakens the soul of our nation.” He clarified that the conference’s purpose was not to accuse men but to inspire them to act as protectors, peacemakers, and role models.

“When men speak up, cultures shift. When men choose respect, households transform,” he said.

The conference included presentations on positive masculinity, gender-based violence, sexual harassment, and men’s mental health, showing how redefining masculinity and addressing mental health challenges can create safer homes and communities.

Held as part of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, the conference is expected to become an annual national platform to deepen dialogue, strengthen community action, and accelerate policy implementation to end all forms of violence.

Source: MoGCSP