Violence against women and girls remains a major challenge in Mozambique, affecting families and communities across the country. While legal frameworks exist to protect victims and promote equality, harmful social norms and misconceptions continue to contribute to gender-based violence (GBV).
With the support from horizont3000 through the knowhow3000 program, a workshop titled “Mano, Fala Com Outro Mano! Chega de Violência Baseada no Género” (“Brother, Talk to Another Brother! Stop Gender-Based Violence”) was held on 27 May 2026 in Chimoio. The event brought together 40 men, including community leaders, traditional authorities, representatives of JOSSOAL, the Provincial Directorate of Gender, Children and Social Action (DPGCAS), and members of the Public Prosecutor’s Office.
The workshop created a safe space for dialogue, learning and reflection on positive masculinity, family rights and inheritance rights. Participants examined common beliefs that often contribute to violence and inequality, such as “a real man does not cry” and “jealousy is a sign of love.” Through open discussion, they explored alternative models of masculinity based on respect, responsibility and protection rather than control and dominance.
A key focus of the training was strengthening participants’ understanding of Mozambican laws related to gender equality and family protection. Representatives from the Public Prosecutor’s Office explained the Domestic Violence Law and highlighted that physical, psychological, sexual and economic violence are criminal offences. Participants learned that domestic violence cases are public crimes and can be prosecuted regardless of whether victims decide to pursue legal action.
The workshop also addressed the Family Law, including the minimum legal age for marriage, rights and responsibilities within marriage, child custody and property rights. These sessions helped correct several misconceptions that continue to affect families and communities.
One of the most engaging discussions focused on inheritance rights. Facilitators challenged the widespread belief that daughters should not inherit family land or property. Participants learned that Mozambican succession law guarantees equal inheritance rights for sons and daughters and protects surviving spouses from unfair dispossession. The session highlighted how denying women access to inheritance constitutes a form of economic violence and reinforces inequality.
The workshop's central message was clear: men have a vital role to play in preventing violence and promoting gender equality. By combining legal education with discussions on positive masculinity and social responsibility, the initiative empowered participants to become advocates for change within their families and communities.
To measure the impact of the workshop, participants completed assessments before and after the training. The results showed significant improvements in both knowledge and attitudes. After the workshop, 98% of participants correctly identified 18 years as the minimum legal age for marriage, while 92% affirmed that daughters and sons have equal inheritance rights. In addition, 90% stated that cases of gender-based violence should be reported to the police within 24 hours, compared to the majority previously referring such cases only to community leaders.
As community leaders, fathers, husbands and brothers, these men are now better equipped to challenge harmful norms, support victims and contribute to building safer and more equitable communities. They will also be able share this knowledge and replicate this in their communities. Real strength is not demonstrated through violence, but through respect, protection and equality.
