Dr Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection, has called for a nationwide shift in attitudes towards masculinity, urging Ghanaians to place men and boys at the heart of efforts to end gender-based violence.

She made the call while delivering the keynote address at the maiden National Conference on Positive Masculinity held in Accra, describing the forum as the beginning of a long-overdue national conversation on redefining masculinity to advance gender equality and social justice.

According to Dr Lartey, tackling gender-based violence requires a deeper appreciation of the challenges confronting men and boys, including mental health struggles, unemployment, substance abuse and rigid stereotypes that discourage emotional expression and help-seeking.

“Positive masculinity is not about diminishing men; it is about creating an environment where men are free to express themselves, seek help when needed and lead with empathy, responsibility and respect,” she said.

The minister noted that while gender interventions have traditionally focused on women and girls, emerging evidence shows that men and boys also experience abuse and vulnerability, making it necessary to adopt more inclusive protection and prevention strategies.

She assured participants of her ministry’s commitment to ensuring that gender equality policies and programmes benefit all groups, stressing that sustainable change cannot be achieved by focusing on one segment of society alone.

Dr Lartey also challenged men to step up as role models and advocates for equity, warning that legislation by itself cannot transform society without a corresponding shift in attitudes and behaviour.

“We need champions of equity and a commitment to nonviolence. Harmful norms must be confronted. Silence must be broken, and all communities must stand united against all forms of gender-based violence. Laws alone cannot change society. Mindsets must change,” she said.

The conference marked a renewed national push to engage men and boys as active partners in promoting gender equality and preventing gender-based violence, as Ghana continues to grapple with cases of domestic abuse, sexual violence and harmful social norms.