Girls Empowerment Network (Genet) project coordinator Mercy Mituka says male involvement in the fight against gender-based violence is crucial to eliminate the vice.

She said this yesterday during mentorship sessions with men, boys, religious and community leaders from traditional authorities (T/As) Njewa, Tsabango, Kabudula and Chiseka in Lilongwe on gender-based violence.

She said they use interactive design approaches to address gender-based violence through safe spaces where women and adolescent girls speak about their challenges.

One of the boys speaks during the session

“Men and boys can support and promote girls’ rights and help to fight against gender-based violence. The sessions have enlightened them on issues affecting girls,” said Mituka.

She said men and boys discuss positive masculinity, which includes the use of their power to protect the rights of adolescent girls and young women.

Cripson Zalinga, a senior health surveillance assistant at Kang’oma Health Centre in T/A Tsabango, commended Genet for the training.

“We will engage fellow men on gender-based violence,” he said.

With funding from the Embassy of Ireland, Genet, in collaboration with UNFPA and the Ministry of Gender, Community Development and Social Welfare, is implementing a Technology and Empowerment Enhancing Networks in Safe Spaces Project in Lilongwe District.

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