International Men's Day (IMD) Celebrations, 2022

Kenyatta University Centre for Gender Equity and Empowerment in collaboration with Kenyatta University Gender Action Movement (KUGAM) marked the International Men’s Day on 17^th November, 2022 through a webinar. The International Men's Day (IMD) is an annual international event which focuses on men's and boys' health, improving gender relations, promoting gender equality, and highlighting positive male role models. It is an occasion to highlight discrimination against men and boys and to celebrate their achievements and contributions in the community, family, marriage, and child care. The broader and ultimate aim of the event is to promote basic humanitarian values.

At Kenyatta University, the day was commemorated under the theme “Making time for old mates: Helping men and boys”. The guest speaker to the event was Mr. Philip Otieno, Executive Director, Advocates for Social Change-Kenya (ADSOCK).

There was a commendable attendance from University Community led by the Vice Chancellor representative Prof. Paul Okemo, Ag. Deputy Vice Chancellor, Administration, staff members and students. 

The official welcoming remarks were made by the Director, Centre for Gender Equity and Empowerment, Prof. Judith N. Waudo.

Other speakers were:

1)      Mr. Kevin Karasi, Congressman School of Public Health, representing KUSA Chairman

2)      Prof. Paul Okemo - Vice Chancellor representative

3)      Mr. Philip Otieno - Chief Guest

From their speeches all speakers acknowledged the importance of friend, both old and new. They also encouraged men to not be afraid share their feelings and emotions for their well-being.

In his speech the Vice-Chancellor reminded men that it is their responsibility to create good relations, improve relations and maintain good relations. This can only be achieved by making time for friends and family, both the older and younger generations and should also teach our young sons and brothers, the importance of having good and productive friends in their lives. Prof. Okemo also called upon men to not only excel in academics but also embrace change and be mentors and role models to juniors.  He commended the Centre for Gender Equity and Empowerment in its efforts in promoting gender equality and equity in all spheres of the university.

Mr. Philip Otieno, Executive Director, Advocates for Social Change-Kenya (ADSOCK) observed that close friendships and social connections can promote good health. Good friendships can help in dealing with mental health issues, male suicide rates, male survivors of sexual violence, male vulnerabilities, negative portrayal and blanket condemnation of men, male engagement in social justice initiatives among others.

He concluded by noting that most men hold multiple experiences of privilege and oppression. The challenge is to move towards accountability and consciousness where we have privilege, empowerment and healing where we are targeted and partnerships - overall work to build alliance with others toward the systemic change that will end the inequalities and exclusion.

Students on the walk around Kenyatta University, Main Campus during the International Men’s Day celebrations on 17^th November 2022

Students with Prof. Judith Waudo, Director, Centre for Gender Equity and Empowerment (far right) during the International Men’s Day celebrations on 17^th November 2022