Positive Masculinities & Gender Equality

Introduction

From a young age, children are taught what is “for boys” and what is “for girls.” These social expectations shape behaviour, opportunities, and confidence. In The Gambia, some communities still discourage girls from studying science or boys from showing emotion. Recognizing and questioning these norms helps create fairer spaces for both.

Positive masculinity encourages boys and men to express empathy, kindness, and respect, rejecting violence, control, and domination. It promotes shared responsibility in homes, schools, and communities. A “strong man” is one who supports others, speaks out against unfairness, and values cooperation over aggression.

In a school in Wassu, Musa refused to let girls join his football team. After seeing another school’s mixed team play with teamwork and skill, he changed his mind. By the end of the term, his team won a regional match, proving that cooperation not exclusion builds strength.

Gender equality means ensuring that girls and boys have equal access to education, leadership, and opportunities. True equality benefits everyone: when girls learn, families prosper; when boys respect women, communities thrive.

Stereotypes — like “boys shouldn’t cry” or “girls should stay quiet” — limit potential. Ending stereotypes means encouraging emotional expression, leadership, and shared responsibilities for all.