By Ollus Ndomu
In the stark reality of gender-based violence persisting in Africa, the recent revelation by Cameroonian authorities that at least 60 women fell victim to domestic violence in 2023 should serve as a piercing wake-up call. As the statistics paint a grim picture of the impact of such violence, it beckons us to question not just the actions of the perpetrators but the very roots of such behaviors.
Gender activists are spotlighting an essential facet of societal transformation – the need for a paradigm shift in parenting, particularly in the upbringing of male children. The argument posits that reshaping the trajectory of future men begins within the confines of our homes.
It is a call for parents to reevaluate traditional norms and approaches in raising boys, challenging stereotypes that often perpetuate toxic masculinity. The question at the core of this discourse is whether parents should actively engage in transforming the narrative surrounding masculinity, dismantling ingrained patterns that contribute to violence against women.
In adopting this perspective, we confront the pervasive influence of societal norms that dictate harmful stereotypes. From an early age, boys are often conditioned to conform to traditional masculinity, emphasizing dominance, suppression of emotions, and an inherent entitlement. These ingrained expectations, if left unchallenged, can manifest into behaviors that fuel gender-based violence in adulthood.
The argument extends beyond merely assigning blame; it urges parents to become architects of change. Transformative parenting involves fostering an environment that encourages emotional intelligence, empathy, and respect for all genders. It is a deliberate effort to break the cycle of violence by instilling values that promote equality, consent, and healthy relationships.
While critics may argue that societal change requires a broader intervention, the essence of transformative parenting lies in its acknowledgment of the foundational role families play in shaping attitudes. Parents, as the primary influencers during a child’s formative years, possess the agency to mold attitudes that reject violence and cultivate mutual respect.
Embracing transformative parenting does not negate the importance of broader societal changes, legal reforms, and awareness campaigns. Instead, it complements these efforts by addressing the issue at its roots. By fostering a generation of men who champion equality and reject violence, we pave the way for a society where the statistics of women falling victim to domestic violence become relics of the past.
In conclusion, the imperative for transformative parenting beckons us to be architects of societal change within the walls of our homes. It prompts parents to envision a future where the statistic of 60 women killed by their partners is an alarming relic, not a recurring reality. The path to dismantling gender-based violence starts with redefining the narratives we impart to our sons – shaping tomorrow’s men with values that transcend harmful stereotypes.
