SHARE:
The project address issues of extreme exclusion of young people who were observed to suffer marginalization; crisis of dignity, identity and despondence. The main purpose of the project is to challenge and change structures, norms and cultures that create hegemonic masculinity about male domination over females.
The TM project promotes peer initiatives, inter-generational dialogues and work through the media to support youth to re-order and change from masculinity practices that rely on dominance and abuse to practices that promote mutual respect and understanding between men and women. The TM programme model hinges on the establishment of Y Clubs and R Clubs in schools and colleges supported by Gender Change Catalysts (GCCs) whose primary roles and functions are to engage in peer mentoring in the Y and R Clubs; coordinate the database and networking initiative; manage and facilitate the community forums; and coordinate the celebrate life events.
The main aim of this programme is to create an environment that fosters gender-balanced roles, relationships, knowledge and opportunities within the regions selected in Zimbabwe. It is primarily placed to generate a reshaping of masculinity and the local knowledge on women and men’s rights. The project sought to target men and challenge hegemonic masculinity which tend to dominate communities yet breeding gender based violence, increase in cases of sexually transmitted infections, HIV amongst other health related issues.
Multiple data sources were consulted in the evaluation and these include both primary and secondary data sources. Primary data were collected from youth in Y-clubs and R-clubs, representatives from partner organizations and government stakeholders whilst secondary data focused on review of project documents, relevant research studies and national youth development plans amongst other key documents. Semi-structured questionnaires, Key Informant and Focus Group Discussion Guides addressing project indicators were administered in individual and group interviews by trained enumerators. Quantitative data was processed and analysed using the Statistical Product and Service Solutions (SPSS) and Micro Soft Excel, whilst qualitative data was analysed through thematic content analysis.
Comment on Zimbabwe: Building Transformative Participation of Young People in the Civic Sphere.