Ghana has intensified efforts to curb sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) with the convening of a National Men’s Conference on Positive Masculinity, bringing male leadership to the center of the country’s gender equality agenda.
Organized by the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection (MoGCSP) in collaboration with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), the conference was held Friday, Dec. 12, 2025, and drew policymakers, members of Parliament, traditional and faith leaders, transport unions, civil society groups, academics and media practitioners.
Delivering the keynote address, Gender Minister Dr. Agnes Naa Momo Lartey underscored that men and boys are indispensable partners in ending SGBV. She said harmful social norms around masculinity often suppress emotional expression, normalize violence and undermine safety within homes and communities.
“Promoting positive masculinity benefits everyone,” Lartey said, adding that rethinking rigid gender roles helps build safer families and more equitable societies.
She highlighted government-led initiatives supporting 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 platforms such as the Orange Support Centre and the Boame App.
“This conference sets the stage for a national conversation on rethinking masculinity,” Lartey said. “Positive masculinity empowers men to lead with empathy, responsibility and respect.”
UNFPA Resident Representative Dr. Wilfred Ochan praised the government for advancing dialogue aligned with the agency’s global male engagement agenda. He noted that cultural, religious and traditional norms can be reshaped to promote dignity, equality and nonviolence.
Representing the Chief of Staff, Presidential Envoy for Interfaith and Ecumenical Bodies Elvis Afriyie Ankrah stressed that gender-based violence undermines national cohesion and moral strength. He said the conference was not about blaming men but mobilizing them as protectors, peacemakers and role models.
“When men speak up, cultures shift. When men choose respect, households transform,” Ankrah said.
The conference featured presentations on positive masculinity, sexual harassment, gender-based violence and men’s mental health, highlighting the link between emotional well-being and peaceful communities.
Held as part of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, the gathering is expected to become an annual platform to deepen national dialogue, strengthen community action and accelerate policy implementation toward ending all forms of violence.