International Men’s Day 2025

 It is another International Men’s Day, and I want to celebrate every man out there. This year’s theme, “Supporting Men and Boys,” talks about an area we often overlook as a society, which is the need for structured support for men’s well-being and growth.

A lot of men feel forgotten and move through each day doing what they can, even when nobody says thank you. They fix things, provide, encourage, and stay steady. International Men’s Day is a moment to remind them that their presence matters.

To actually support men, we need to invest in them in what they do and in how they go about it. For years, we have seen scholarships, mentorship programs, and networks created for women, helping them grow, and find their footing. Men deserve that too. They need platforms where they can learn and just soar.

There are already some male-focused initiatives in Africa that show what support can look like.

For example, The Boys’ Mentorship Programme helps boys aged 7–17 build responsibility, emotional strength, and leadership skills through retreats and bootcamps.

#MENtoringBOYS by the African ChangeMakers Initiative provides adolescent boys with life skills training, mentorship, and guidance on civic responsibility.

MenEngage Africa Training Initiative mentors men to lead positive change in their communities, while programs like the Jes Foord Foundation’s Young Men’s Mentorship Program in South Africa focus on self-esteem, leadership, and adolescence.

These initiatives show that male mentorship can transform boys into capable, responsible men. Support isn’t just telling men to “be strong” or “man up.” It’s giving them tools for life like financial planning, emotional awareness, and balanced leadership.

Structured support is essential. Mentorship programs and small groups teach men how to be responsible, plan, and build character. A mentor who takes the time to check in can redirect a boy or young man onto a more purposeful path. These networks provide guidance, challenge, and encouragement, helping boys and men find purpose rather than struggle alone, and share opportunities, from career advice to life skills, to lift men into the next stage of life in ways casual encouragement cannot.

When we build support systems for men, the effects will be felt in every part of society. Families become stronger, workplaces become better, and communities flourish. Men who learn well will lead well and support one another, creating environments where everyone benefits. Advocating for men is not a competition with women. This is about finding balance. We need more men to pick up the gauntlet.

If we want men who lead responsibly, live intentionally, and contribute positively, we must offer them the right tools, examples, and structured support. When boys have guidance, they are more likely to make good choices, leading to strong, stable lives.

I hope from today, we will start seeing more men being supported.

Happy International Men’s Day.