Championing Men’s Health

In communities across South Africa, NACOSA is working to engage adolescent boys and young men in vital conversations about health, mental well-being, and social issues. Through these engagements, NACOSA tackles topics like HIV/AIDS, gender-based violence, and harmful gender norms, aiming to create safe spaces where young men can share their experiences, gain knowledge, and make informed choices.

“Our aim is to engage men on topics that they don’t often discuss openly — like gender-based violence, HIV and AIDS, and the pressures of gender norms,” explains Siseko Ngqoza, the Project Officer for NACOSA’s Adolescents Boys and Young Men programme. “These discussions aren’t easy, but they’re essential to help men and young boys understand the impact of societal expectations and ‘act like a man’ attitudes.”

Bringing men into health programmes can be challenging, one of the most pressing issues is encouraging men to get tested for HIV. “Men have their reasons for being afraid to test,” he says. “It’s often fear of what others will think or concerns about their privacy.” Despite these barriers, NACOSA has developed creative ways to bring men on board, such as tailoring messages to resonate with them and offering a welcoming environment. For example, Lukhanyo Mendu, who attended a Men and Boys engagement event in Kimberley, was initially hesitant about getting tested. However, the approach NACOSA took changed his perspective. “It gave me a chance to see how other guys think besides the opinions I have,” Lukhanyo shared. “So, it broadened my horizon and the way I think.”

Once involved, many men feel proud and even become advocates within their communities. “One of our participants in Gugulethu, Cape Town started as just a regular attendee. But after going through the programme, he was so inspired that he began volunteering at our events, helping to recruit others and spread awareness,” shares Siseko.

Hope Africa, one of NACOSA’s implementing partners, works tirelessly across communities to offer HIV testing and health education. “They are friendly, approachable, and always clear about the services they provide. People see their passion, and it builds trust,” he added. NACOSA also collaborates with local stakeholders, creating a network of support that amplifies the reach of their services.

In addition to health awareness, Siseko has dedicated himself to the well-being of young boys through initiation schools, partnering with the Somagwaza Institute. “We’re helping 41 underprivileged boys across communities, giving them support they wouldn’t otherwise receive,” he says. This work is part of his broader commitment through the Gugulethu Forum, which supports young boys in their journey to adulthood.

NACOSA encourages men and boys to take steps toward caring for their physical and mental health, recognising the courage it takes to build a healthier future. “It’s not just about health; it’s about changing lives and giving people a chance to make different choices. That’s what makes this work so rewarding,” Concludes Siseko.