Ghana has taken another step in the fight against Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) with the National Men’s Conference on Positive Masculinity, organised by the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection (MoGCSP) in collaboration with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA).

Held on Friday, December 12, the conference brought together policymakers, Members of Parliament, traditional and faith leaders, transport unions, civil society organisations, development partners, academia and the media to examine the role of men in building a just and equitable society.

In her keynote address, the Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection, Dr Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, said men and boys must be at the centre of efforts to end sexual and gender-based violence.

She explained that promoting positive masculinity benefits both men and women by challenging harmful social norms that restrict emotional expression, fuel violence and create unsafe environments in homes and communities.

Dr Lartey outlined key government-led initiatives aimed at advancing gender equality, including the Affirmative Action (Gender Equity) Act, the Social Protection Act, Men and Boys Clubs, mentorship programmes, Domestic Violence Response Centres in markets, and digital support platforms such as the Orange Support Centre and the Boame App.

“This conference sets the stage for a national conversation on rethinking masculinity,” she said. “Positive masculinity empowers men to lead with empathy, responsibility and respect, helping build safer families and peaceful communities.”

The UNFPA Resident Representative, Dr Wilfred Ochan, praised the government for promoting a dialogue that aligns with UNFPA’s global male engagement agenda.

He noted that cultural, religious and traditional gender norms can be transformed to promote dignity, equality and mutual respect.

Representing the Chief of Staff, the Presidential Envoy for Interfaith and Ecumenical Bodies, Elvis Afriyie Ankrah, said every act of gender-based violence “weakens the soul of our nation.”

He stressed that the purpose of the conference was not to blame men, but to encourage them to play active roles as protectors, peacemakers and positive role models in society.

“When men speak up, cultures shift. When men choose respect, households transform,” he said.

The conference featured presentations on positive masculinity, gender-based violence, sexual harassment and men’s mental health.

Speakers highlighted how redefining masculinity and addressing mental health challenges among men can contribute to safer homes and stronger communities.

Held as part of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, the National Men’s Conference is expected to become an annual platform to deepen national dialogue, strengthen community action and accelerate the implementation of policies aimed at ending all forms of violence.