Male Engagement Forum praised for advancing Gender Equality

The Ministry of Gender, Youth and Social Development with support from the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) held a three-day Male Engagement Forum that brought together participants from all districts to deepen understanding of gender equality, Gender-Based Violence (GBV), Sexual and Reproductive Health & Rights, and positive masculinity.

On the last day of the forum, both participants and facilitators described the engagement as eye-opening and transformative, particularly in reshaping attitudes toward gender-based violence (GBV) and the responsibility within families and communities.

Setumo Mabolloane, founder of the Thakaneng and Seotloaneng Movement, said the forum was highly enlightening and introduced him to concepts he had never fully engaged with before. “It was my first time learning about bodily autonomy. I have learned about SRHR deeply, and this has changed how I understand personal rights and health,” he said.

Gibson Matlena, a member of the Guild of St Stephen, said the sessions helped him better understand the root causes of gender-based violence. “I have that there are many things contributing to GBV, and I am now fully capacitated about them,” he said.

Read the full story in the latest issue of Maseru Metro: Metro e-Edition 01 July 2026 – Maseru Metro