Experiences of anti-gender based violence non-governmental organizations in integrating the national male involvement strategy in their programs to prevent GBV : a case of selected organizations in Kampala, Uganda

Abstract

Gender-Based Violence (GBV) prevention efforts have expanded globally, emphasizing the need for comprehensive strategies that address the root causes often embedded in power imbalances between men and women and societal norms. Male involvement has emerged as a key strategy for preventing GBV. Male involvement as a critical component underscores the importance of engaging men and boys in challenging harmful norms and stereotypes and promoting gender equality. In this regard, the National Male Involvement Strategy was developed to guide anti-GBV programming in Uganda and promote men's involvement in the fight against GBV. While several studies have examined why male involvement is needed in GBV prevention work, many have not reviewed the experiences of anti-GBV Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) in using the existing National Male Involvement Strategy as a tool for GBV prevention. This study provides insights into the experiences of anti-GBV NGOs in Uganda as they integrate the National Male Involvement Strategy, 2017, as a tool for preventing GBV. This study explores NGOs' barriers, facilitators, and practices in incorporating the National Male Involvement Strategy into their GBV programs. The study employed an exploratory cross-sectional design and a qualitative approach. The sample included eight primary participants from 4 purposively selected anti-GBV NGOs in Kampala City and three key informants. The main methods of data collection were in-depth interviews and key informant interviews. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis techniques. I found that the National Male Involvement Strategy has significantly impacted GBV prevention efforts in Kampala, where many anti-GBV NGOs have developed approaches and best practices based on its implementation. The study highlights various approaches used by organizations to engage men in preventing GBV. These include the SASA! approach, the male engage approach, and the model parenting approach. These strategies focus on community mobilization, long-term gender norm transformation, and positive role models for GBV prevention. The key facilitators of integrating the National Male Involvement Strategy identified in this study include community engagement, tailored interventions, and gender-sensitive frameworks. Community willingness, local context, and accessible language facilitate participation. Policies like the National Policy and Domestic Violence Act support male involvement initiatives. The National Male Involvement Strategy for GBV prevention faces barriers like ideological differences, patriarchal norms, poor strategy conceptualization, and evidence-based approaches. As highlighted by the study, language and framing issues also alienate men from participation. In conclusion, the study explored how Anti-GBV NGOs integrate the National Male Involvement Strategy in GBV prevention, revealing both enabling factors and ongoing practical challenges. Using an implementation science determinant framework, success depends on contextual, organizational, and individual factors, while emphasizing community participation and gender-inclusive advocacy. The NGOs showed diverse and innovative approaches, shifting toward inclusive, context-driven male involvement, offering key insights for improving future strategy implementation.