MEN'S SPACE | Mobilising Men to HIV Prevention, Care and Treatment

 


Joab Khasewa, PO Prevention NSDCC (L), Phil Otieno, Executive Director of Advocates for Social Change (mid), Me (R)

This week, I had the opportunity to engage in a discussion with top-notch gender experts, led by Phil Otieno, Executive Director of Advocates for Social Change – Kenya with religious leaders, public heath officers and young and adolescent persons.   Our deliberations focused on the pivotal role that men play in the prevention of HIV and the battle against Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV). Despite this significance, men's involvement in these efforts is often impeded by a lack of understanding of gender issues and the barriers hindering their advocacy and protection of progress made so far.

To initiate this understanding, it is essential to grasp the concept of gender and its influence on HIV and SGBV. Gender encompasses the social roles, behaviours, and expectations society assigns to masculinity and femininity. Recognising that gender norms affect everyone allows for the development of more inclusive strategies in addressing these issues.


Society often perpetuates harmful stereotypes, portraying men solely as perpetrators of SGBV or assuming that HIV only impacts certain populations. It is paramount to challenge these stereotypes and acknowledge that both men and women can experience violence and be affected by HIV. By dismantling these biases, men can become empowered to challenge harmful behaviours and become agents of change.


To achieve this, education and awareness are vital. Men should be provided with a better understanding of gender dynamics, including power imbalances, consent, and the importance of respectful relationships. Educational initiatives should emphasise empathy, emotional intelligence, and the need to eradicate harmful practices. By equipping men with this knowledge, they can actively engage in the prevention of HIV and SGBV.


Men also possess unique power and influence. By recognising and harnessing this power, they can challenge harmful norms, support survivors, and create a safer environment for all. This means taking a stance against victim-blaming, challenging derogatory language or behaviour, and actively promoting healthy gender relations. By doing so, men can help create an atmosphere where survivors feel supported and encouraged to report acts of violence.


It is also important to foster partnerships and collaboration. Effective prevention efforts and lasting solutions require collaboration between men, women, and diverse stakeholders. Creating platforms for open dialogue, involving multiple perspectives, and building alliances can amplify the impact of these efforts.


It is evident that men are crucial allies in the prevention of HIV and the fight against SGBV. By addressing the barriers they face, promoting an understanding of gender dynamics, and encouraging their active engagement, we can build a society that embraces equality and respect for all. Together, men and women can work towards creating a safer and more inclusive world, free from HIV and SGBV.

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