Breaking Stereotypes: Men Take Lead in Childcare in Kyangwali Refugee Settlement
In many African communities, the responsibility of childcare, ranging from breastfeeding, meal preparation, and active feeding to caring for sick children and engaging them in play, is traditionally seen as a woman's duty. This cultural norm often leaves women exhausted, juggling the demands of childcare with household responsibilities, often without the support of their husbands. However, a transformative shift is taking place in Kyangwali Refugee Settlement, where men are stepping up to share the load.
With support from the World Food Programme (WFP), the Lutheran World Federation (LWF) is implementing the care group structure in Kyangwali. These care groups, typically comprised of pregnant and lactating women and caretakers of children under two years old, are now increasingly involving men in these critical roles. Approximately, 64 care groups are being engaged in Kyangwali and out of these 10 are purely male care groups.
The care groups meet monthly to learn about Maternal, Infant, and Young Child Nutrition (MIYCAN) modules. New modules are introduced regularly to encourage behavior change and promote healthy nutrition practices within the community. In Katikara village, Kikuube District, a group of male care group volunteers share their journey of becoming active participants in childcare.
"Ever since I joined this care group, I now understand what my child needs to eat," says Baguma Kusiima, a 29-year-old male care group volunteer. "So even when my wife asks for food items to buy, I can provide them without questioning her. My babies are now healthy, and I enjoy being part of their daily feeding," he added.
The male volunteers not only participate in the learning sessions but also take on the responsibility of visiting other men in their community. They share nutrition information and encourage behavior changes in the community.
"I feel so proud when my fellow men in the village use me as an example," says Asiimwe, another male volunteer. "They come to me for advice on how to care for children and welcome me with respect during the home visits."
The impact of male involvement is evident. Villages with active care groups report increased health-seeking behaviors and a stronger focus on child nutrition. Muhumuza, a 32-year-old from Katikara, confidently teaches his neighbors how to prepare Kitobeero, a complementary feed for children aged 6 to 24 months. "When I take my baby to the center, my peers jokingly call him the ‘Kitobeero baby’ because he is so healthy and strong," he shares.
The involvement of men in childcare is not only transforming their own understanding and participation in family life but is also bringing profound relief and joy to the mothers in Kyangwali. Women who once bore the full weight of childcare responsibilities are now experiencing a new dynamic in their households. One mother shares her heartfelt perspective on the change she has witnessed:
"As a mother, having my husband actively involved in caring for our children has been a blessing. It has eased my burden and brought us closer as a family. Seeing him prepare meals and play with our little ones makes me proud and reassures me that our children are growing up healthy and loved," she said.
Male participation in childcare has not only enhanced the well-being of children but also expanded the reach of vital nutrition and health information across the community. The care group structure, promoting a sense of ownership and sustainability, is a model that other health partners should embrace.
By challenging traditional gender roles, these men in Kyangwali are leading by example, proving that childcare is a shared responsibility, one that benefits the entire community.
