Far from the spotlight, in the remote mountain villages of Mokhotlong, men are stepping into new roles—as champions of change, advocates for equality, and protectors of their families’ well-being.
For years, men in Mokhotlong were reluctant to seek health care, particularly when it came to sexual and reproductive health. Cultural expectations, long queues, and the discomfort of discussing private issues with female health workers kept many away from clinics. But today, change is unfolding—thanks to a focused effort to engage men in a respectful, informed, and inclusive way.
At the heart of this transformation is the male clinic at Mokhotlong hospital, staffed by trained male nurses like Mr. Potsane Lirahalibonoe. His passion is evident as he speaks about the men who now walk through the clinic doors.
“What makes me happy is seeing my clients leave with a smile,” he says. “They come back, they trust us, and they begin to take responsibility not only for their own health, but also for the wellbeing of their partners and families.”
According to Mr. Lirahalibonoe, the number of men visiting the clinic is increasing by 10 percent each year—a promising trend in a district where health-seeking behavior among men has historically been low. “They now feel comfortable with us and feel safe,” he adds.
But it wasn’t always like this. According to Nurse Midwife and District Health Management Team (DHMT) member Ms. Refuoe Sehlare, early attempts to reach men highlighted key barriers.
“Through community dialogues, men told us they didn’t feel comfortable receiving services from women. They also complained about long queues and lack of privacy,” she explains. “So before the male clinic was opened, we trained male nurses to address these concerns. Since then, we’ve seen a shift—men are now accompanying their wives to clinics, and many are referred by other men in their communities.”
The initiative is part of the broader 2gether4SRHR programme, a regional effort supported by UN agencies to improve access to sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) for all—including men and boys.
Mr. Joele Tumo, Monitoring and Evaluation Officer at the DHMT and a facilitator in the male engagement training, said the sessions are about much more than just health—they are about redefining masculinity.
“Through the training, we emphasize that being a real man means supporting your pregnant partner, understanding the impact of gender-based violence (GBV), and becoming a champion for your community,” he says. “We talk about how GBV affects not only women but the nation’s economy and social fabric.”
His words are grounded in troubling statistics. The Lesotho Demographic and Health Survey (LDHS) reveals that GBV is alarmingly high in Mokhotlong, with 45 percent of women aged 15–49 who have ever been in a relationship reporting emotional, physical, or sexual abuse—placing the district second only to Thaba-Tseka.
For this reason, male engagement is not only progressive—it is essential.
Speaking at a recent community meeting in Bafali village, Mr. Tumo appealed to men to be proactive. “There are illnesses related to sexual activity that can affect your family. It’s important to visit the clinic—don’t wait until it’s too late,” he urged. “My dream is a Lesotho free of GBV, where men support and accompany their women to health services.”
This message is beginning to resonate.
Chief T’seiso Phakisi of Bafali takes pride in his role as a community leader and protector of his people’s well-being. “SRHR issues in the family often start with the husband,” he says. “We used to have many GBV cases around Christmas and Easter. But after the Ministry of Health’s visit and the discussions we held with men, we had no GBV reports during the last Easter holiday.”
Another traditional leader, Chief Seabelo Phakisi, also trained under the program, says the way he addresses GBV has changed. “I no longer just send victims to the police. I listen, I advise, and I try to resolve where possible. My dream is to see every man take these issues seriously and speak in one voice against GBV.”
Yet the battle is far from over.
Mr. Lirahalibonoe expresses concern over a spike in new HIV infections, with up to eight new cases reported weekly, compared to just one previously. The data underscores the urgent need for continued outreach and education.
“Our areas are remote, and women often give birth at home, far from help,” says Mr. Tumo. “But if men accompany their partners, if they support them, maternal deaths—which remain high at 530 per 100,000 live births—can be reduced.”
What is happening in Mokhotlong is more than a health intervention—it is a cultural shift. One that challenges harmful norms, empowers families, and offers a vision of a more just, healthy, and compassionate Lesotho.
As Mr. Tumo reflects, “Ultimately, society will change—because we are starting where it matters most: with the men, in the villages, with knowledge, dignity, and hope.”
