WANANCHI OPINION: Men, empowered women are not a threat to your masculinity

On December 10, concerned citizens participated in the #EndFemicide march to demand an end to the escalating cases of gender-based violence (GBV), particularly femicide.

Unfortunately, the peaceful protest was met with police harassment, including teargas and arrests, contrary to the

President's public commitment to eradicating such violence.

This incident underscores systemic failures in addressing femicide and protecting those advocating for justice.

The increase in femicide could be linked to retrogressive responses by some members of society following the societal shifts involving more women making strides in education, employment, and societal leadership.

There is a group which appears to be threatened by empowered women who demand equality in relationships, advocating for partnerships built on mutual respect and shared responsibilities and respond with criminal acts.

Women are challenging outdated gender roles, refusing to accept subservience.

However, many men are unprepared for this paradigm shift. They often perceive challenges to their authority as personal attacks, leading to conflicts that can escalate dangerously.

Empowered women face resistance not because empowerment is inherently problematic but because society failed to educate men on the value and implications of equality.

There is also emotional suppression and mismanagement in men.

Cultural norms discourage men from expressing vulnerability or seeking emotional support.

This leaves many men ill-equipped to handle conflicts healthily. In moments of frustration or perceived disrespect, some resort to violence as a misguided assertion of control. 

There is a need for comprehensive solutions to put a hard stop to GBV.

This includes teaching boys and men emotional intelligence, conflict resolution, and the benefits of gender equality from a young age.

There is also a need to address systemic failures, including police misconduct during protests and inadequate enforcement of GBV laws.

There is also a need to shift cultural narratives to celebrate empowered women and redefine masculinity to include emotional literacy.

While men also face violence, this discussion focuses on femicide. Efforts to combat femicide contribute to a broader framework for eliminating all forms of gender-based violence.