This report is an adaptation of the global State of the World’s Fathers report, which was produced by Mencare, a global campaign to promote men and boys’ involvement as equitable, non-violent caregivers. The report highlights the research and findings from the State of the World’s Fathers report that are specific to Africa. This Africa-focused report was produced by Sonke Gender Justice. The report examines and uncovers the knowledge on men’s participation in unpaid care work, sexual and reproductive health and rights, maternal and child health, violence against women and children, and child development in the African context. The authors of the report also note the limitations of gathering information on these topics as the data concerning fathers in Africa are limited. “More information needs to be collected to fully understand men’s caregiving practices on the continent and to contribute to transforming the institution of fatherhood,” says the report.
That said, the information that is available suggests that men’s caregiving practices in Africa are following general global trends. The report includes an overview of several aspects of men and caregiving and offers recommendations on meeting challenges and creating opportunities for the increased positive involvement of men and boys in unpaid care work.
