Men face numerous health challenges, including mental health issues, reluctance to seek medical help, and unhealthy behavior. Fear of stigma and lack of safe spaces prevent men from discussing sensitive topics like STIs and infertility, often leading to substance abuse and other detrimental behaviors.
Many organizations exclude men from their programs based on the belief that men are primarily perpetrators of gender-based violence (GBV). This exclusion overlooks the need to understand and address the underlying factors that contribute to such behavior.
Health 4 Men Initiative is dedicated to addressing the unique health challenges faced by men. Our mission is to create a supportive environment where men can openly discuss their health issues and access the necessary resources to lead healthier lives.
Vision
A just Malawi where ALL people are promoted, empowered, and self-reliable, and are fully respected, protected and fulfilled.
Mission
To enable key populations in Malawi to have access to various health and social services.
Objectives
- To ensure that key populations have accessible and affordable health care.
- To eradicate violence and stigma against Key Populations persons.
- To ensure that up-to-date information concerning all issues about Key Populations are easily and freely available to all its members.
- To train and educate service providers and the community at large about the unique SRHR needs of key populations.
Board Members
Victor Chilalogwe is an accomplished Executive Director with extensive experience in project management, particularly in areas concerning refugees, LGBTQI+ advocacy, and HIV/AIDS initiatives. With a decade of dedicated work with refugee populations, he has developed a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by these communities and has effectively led projects aimed at improving their living conditions and access to essential services.
His expertise encompasses not only program development and execution but also advocacy and policy work, ensuring that the voices of marginalized groups are heard and considered in decision-making processes. Victor’s commitment to social justice and human rights has made a significant impact in the communities he serves, fostering inclusive environments that prioritize the well-being of refugees and other vulnerable populations.
Through his leadership, Victor has successfully collaborated with various stakeholders, including government agencies, non-profit organizations, and community groups, to implement sustainable solutions that address the multifaceted issues surrounding displacement, discrimination, and health disparities. His work continues to inspire others in the field and contributes to a more equitable society for all.
Friday Chiwaya is a dedicated Youth Development and Human Resources Specialist with over 20 years of experience working with young people from diverse backgrounds. Currently serving as the Youth Development Coordinator at SOS Children’s Village, Friday is deeply passionate about empowering youth to become responsible, productive members of society. His work centers on creating transformative opportunities for young people to thrive through education, health services, career coaching, mentorship, psycho-social support, character building, sports, and community service initiatives.
Friday’s approach is results-driven and focused on fostering positive change and growth. As a professional and collaborative team player, he excels in the planning, coordination, and implementation of individualized youth programs, always striving to drive success and meaningful outcomes. His ability to connect with young people and guide them towards realizing their potential has made a significant impact in the communities he serves.
He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Human Resource Management and is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Human Resource Management and Industrial Relations at the University of Malawi.
Joseph Mike Mambo is a military officer and leader, currently serving as the Director of Research and Development at the Malawi Defense Force Command and Staff College. Holding a Master’s degree in Military Art and Science, Colonel Mambo brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to his role.
A seasoned commander, Colonel Mambo has led troops in various operational deployments, honing his skills in leadership, strategy, and tactical operations. Notably, he has extensive experience addressing mental health issues affecting soldiers in combat and post-deployment trauma, demonstrating his commitment to the welfare of those under his command.
As a leader and scholar, Colonel Mambo continues to contribute to the advancement of military education and research, shaping the next generation of leaders.
Janet Patricia Chikoja is a lecturer in business communication at the Malawi University of Business and Applied Sciences (MUBAS). She is currently a doctoral student at Rhodes University (South Africa). She holds a master’s degree in Literary Studies, a master’s degree in Linguistics (pending), and a Bachelor of Arts (Humanities) degree from the University of Malawi. Her research in literary studies is on gender-based violence against men, men’s mental health, trauma, and masculinity.
Her research in linguistics focuses on language and gender. Her other research interests include literature and the environment, men’s studies, gender, postcolonial studies, psychoanalysis, psycho-linguistics, descriptive linguistics, discourse analysis, and socio-linguistics. Janet was also a lecturer in Language and Communication at Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources (NRC Campus), where she also served as co-chair for the LUANAR Gender Coordinating Unit. She is also a published poet, short story writer, freelance editor, and translator.
Chikaiko Yatuta Machika a Legal Practitioner by profession with eight years experience. He has worked in private practice with Messrs. Masumbu & Company then moved to corporate practice where he is currently working with Ecobank Malawi Limited as Litigation Manager. Before joining the legal profession, he worked under Ministry of Education as a secondary school teacher until 2016.
Chikaiko has served in Blantyre Synod Health and Development Commission as a Board Member and currently he is sits in Council of Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources and Board of Trustees of Rays of Hope Ministries. Chikaiko is married with two children and he is passionate about working with the youth.