Engaging Men and Boys in Nutrition Programming

This technical brief outlines the Takunda project, which focuses on engaging men and boys in food security and nutrition programming in Zimbabwe. The project is implemented by CARE Zimbabwe and partners, aiming to address the underlying causes of food insecurity and malnutrition through a comprehensive approach. The document details the challenges faced by women in accessing resources and decision-making in households, emphasizing the importance of male involvement in changing harmful gender norms. It describes a five-staged synchronization approach used to engage men, which includes conscientization, intimate dialogues, building the base, stepping out and stepping up, and alliances for advocacy. Each stage aims to promote gender equality and improve nutrition outcomes by fostering dialogue among men and women, encouraging shared responsibilities in caregiving, and advocating for policy changes. The brief highlights the impact of these efforts on food security and nutrition, showcasing the necessity of including men as equal partners in the journey toward sustainable solutions.