Togo Hosts Sensitization Meeting on Mental Load and Men's Well-being

A sensitization meeting on mental load and well-being of men and boys was held on November 12 in Tové Ahoundjo, Kloto 1 commune, Togo. The event was organized by the Ministry of Family, in collaboration with the Young Volunteers for the Environment (JVE) association in the Plateaux region and the SIBEC association in the Kara region, with support from the German Development Cooperation (GIZ) through the DeZon project. The meeting aimed to promote men's and boys' health and well-being through inclusive community dialogue.

The meeting, held under the theme "Mental Load and Well-being of Men and Boys," brought together men from various socio-professional categories, including religious, traditional, and community leaders. The objective was to raise awareness among men and leaders about the issues related to mental load, encourage their involvement in promoting health, gender equality, and family well-being, and create a platform for them to share their concerns and experiences.

Mental load refers to the set of concerns, responsibilities, and permanent solicitations that a person must manage daily, often invisibly. In men, it can be linked to the pressure to provide for the family, professional responsibilities, social expectations, decision-making, and the obligation to meet the demands of their entourage. When these responsibilities accumulate, they can lead to stress, psychological exhaustion, withdrawal, and relationship difficulties.

In Togo, these realities are observed in both rural and urban areas, where certain traditions and social expectations maintain rigid conceptions of masculinity. Therefore, there is a need to promote a positive masculinity based on listening, dialogue, sharing responsibilities, solidarity, and mutual respect. This approach also concerns boys, who are called to grow up in an environment favorable to the expression of their emotions, responsibility, and respectful relationships.

During the exchanges, led by Mme Akofa Akossiwo Lolonyo, a development agent from the Kpalimé-based association Rassemblement des femmes unies pour le développement (RFUD), participants identified different forms of mental load and reflected on behaviors that can weigh heavily on their loved ones. Emphasis was placed on the need for each person to become aware of their responsibilities and attitudes.

Discussions also addressed the physical, psychological, and social dimensions of men's and boys' health, as well as their contribution to family and community cohesion. The meeting provided a platform for men to share their experiences and concerns, and to explore ways to promote their well-being and that of their families.

The event was held in commemoration of the International Men's Day, celebrated on November 19. The Ministry of Family and the collaborating associations aim to promote men's and boys' health and well-being through such initiatives, and to encourage a culture of dialogue and mutual respect.

Key points

• The meeting aimed to promote men's and boys' health and well-being through inclusive community dialogue.