MenEngage Africa welcomes newly elected Steering Committee

We are proud to announce the newly elected Steering Committee of MenEngage Africa Alliance, a landmark moment in our ongoing mission to promote gender justice, challenge harmful gender norms, and foster positive masculinities across the continent. This dynamic and diverse group embodies the Alliance’s core values of inclusion, collaboration, and transformation.

A new chapter of leadership begins

The path to electing this remarkable committee began at the Annual General Meeting in November 2024, where dedicated advocates from across Africa came together to help shape the future of the Alliance. From April 2^nd to 4^th, 2025, MenEngage Africa and Sonke Gender Justice, with the support of SIDA, convened an induction meeting in Harare, Zimbabwe.

This four-day gathering brought together both the Regional Steering Committee and the Youth Steering Committee, reinforcing a shared commitment to deepening the fight against gender-based violence and strengthening gender equality across African communities.

The induction meeting provided a comprehensive platform for deep reflection and strategic planning, covering a range of critical themes essential to MenEngage Africa’s mission. Discussions explored the impact of current geopolitical developments on the Alliance’s work, delving into how shifting political and social landscapes influence advocacy efforts and community engagement. Participants also reviewed and refined advocacy strategies for MenEngage Africa, including key initiatives such as the MenCare campaign, which promotes involved and equitable fatherhood. In addition, the Steering Committee engaged with the MEA Charter and Accountability Frameworks, reaffirming the Alliance’s commitment to transparency, shared leadership, and collective responsibility.

“This opportunity to serve comes at a time when truth, transparency, and equity are increasingly elusive. Despite the challenges, MenEngage Africa remains committed to upholding the integrity and dignity of all human life.” — Bruce Sakindi, newly elected co-Chair of MenEngage Africa Alliance

Meet the New Steering Committee Members

We are thrilled to introduce the inspiring individuals who will lead MenEngage Africa into its next phase of growth and impact:

• Bruce Sakindi (Rwanda) – A leading voice in gender advocacy and current Chair.
• Ekenia Chifamba (Zimbabwe) – A tireless defender of women’s rights.
• Chomba Crispin (SAFAIDS) – A key regional partner championing sexual and reproductive health and rights.
• Jilo Duba (Kenya) – Creating lasting change in grassroots communities.
• Emmanuel Namposya (Malawi) – Focused on transformative, community-driven initiatives.
• Moslyn Serena Aruna (Sierra Leone) – A strong advocate for gender equity and social inclusion.
• Chukwuebuka Ibezim (Nigeria) – Passionate about youth empowerment and SRHR.
• Robert Amoafo (Pan African ILGA) – A bold and courageous voice for the LGBTIQ+ community.
• Ali Jukhoon (ADF) – Elevating the importance of disability inclusion.
• Emmanuel Modikwane (Save the Children) – Protecting and advocating for children’s rights.
• Beleyi Languie – Chair of MEA Youth, representing the vibrant and determined voices of Africa’s youth.

“I want to extend heartfelt gratitude to the outgoing chairperson and committee members for their invaluable contributions. I look forward to working collaboratively with our new team, stakeholders, regional partners, and the broader MenEngage network to drive meaningful, lasting change and create a more just and equitable society.” – Ekenia Chifamba, MenEngage Africa Co-Chair

Youth leadership at the forefront

One of the most powerful features of this new chapter is the elevation of youth leadership. For the first time, young leaders from across the continent representing diverse sexual orientations and lived experiences are stepping into key leadership roles in both the Regional and Youth Steering Committees.

“Young people are not just the leaders of tomorrow, they are the changemakers of today. Including youth voices in policy reform for gender equality and GBV ensures that our solutions resonate with their realities and dreams, creating a future where every voice is valued.” — Emmanuel Sesay, MenEngage Sierra Leone