Ramaphosa’s Speech on Positive Masculinity at the 3rd African Union Men’s Conference

The 3rd African Union Men’s Conference recently took place in Johannesburg, South Africa, bringing together leaders and advocates from across the continent to address the important issue of positive masculinity. One of the key highlights of the conference was the address by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, who spoke passionately about the need for men to embrace positive and non-toxic expressions of masculinity.

In his address, President Ramaphosa emphasized the role that men can play in promoting gender equality and challenging harmful gender norms. He spoke about the need for men to be allies in the fight against gender-based violence and to actively work towards creating a more just and equitable society for all.

Ramaphosa’s words resonated with many attendees at the conference, who see positive masculinity as a crucial element in the struggle for gender equality. Too often, traditional notions of masculinity promote aggressive, dominating behavior, which can lead to violence and discrimination against women and other marginalized groups. By promoting a more positive form of masculinity, one that values empathy, respect, and cooperation, men can help to create a more inclusive and equitable society for all.

One of the key themes of the conference was the idea that masculinity is not inherently toxic, but it is often the way it is expressed and enforced that leads to harm. By promoting positive masculinity, the conference aims to foster a culture in which men can feel confident expressing their emotions, seeking help when needed, and challenging harmful societal norms.

The 3rd African Union Men’s Conference also provided a platform for men to share their experiences and insights on what it means to be a positive male role model in their communities. The discussions at the conference highlighted the diverse ways in which men can promote positive masculinity, from challenging gender stereotypes in the workplace to creating more inclusive spaces for all genders.

The conference also provided an opportunity for attendees to learn from each other and to collaborate on strategies for promoting positive masculinity in their respective countries. By working together, men from across the continent can help to create a more supportive and inclusive environment for all genders.

Overall, the 3rd African Union Men’s Conference was a powerful platform for promoting positive masculinity and challenging harmful gender norms. President Ramaphosa’s address, in particular, served as a rallying call for men to take an active role in promoting gender equality and creating a more just society for all. As we look to the future, it is clear that positive masculinity will continue to be a crucial element in the fight for gender equality and social justice across Africa and beyond.