Rio de Janeiro, Brazil | 27–30 May 2026 The MenCare Changemaker Summit is a landmark global initiative organized by Equimundo and WOW – Women of the World, bringing together more than 100 influential leaders from civil society, governments, academia, media, culture, and the private sector to develop practical solutions to some of the most pressing challenges facing men, boys, and masculinity around the world today. The summit forms part of a two-year global journey aimed at building a world where caring manhood becomes the new normal.Fidele Rutayisire was selected as one of the global MenCare Changemakers and invited to contribute to the Men's Health and Health for All Action Track, alongside leading experts, researchers, policymakers, and practitioners from across the world. The action track was organized in partnership with Global Action on Men's Health and focused on addressing the persistent and often overlooked health inequalities affecting men and boys globally. Advancing the Global Conversation on Men's Health During the first two days of the summit, participants in the Men's Health Action Track examined evidence showing that men, particularly poor and marginalized men, often experience poorer health outcomes and shorter life expectancy due to a combination of structural inequalities, harmful gender norms, limited access to health services, and inadequate public policies. Discussions emphasized that improving men's health is not a competing agenda with women's health but rather an essential component of achieving health and wellbeing for all. The group reached several important conclusions and agreed on a roadmap for collective action over the next fifteen months: Reframe the global narrative on men's health as a public health and social justice issue. Develop practical guidance for policymakers to create and implement effective men's health policies. Equip healthcare professionals with tools and approaches that better engage men and boys in health services. Launch a global public awareness campaign communicating a simple but powerful message: "You are seen, and your health matters." These solutions will be further developed and refined before the MenCare Changemakers reconvene in Melbourne, Australia, in 2027. Changemakers in men’s health for track Sharing Rwanda's Experience in Engaging Men in Care Work On the final two days of the summit, participants attended a range of workshops, learning sessions, site visits, and public dialogues exploring how caring masculinities can contribute to healthier families, communities, and societies. A highlight of the summit was Fidele Rutayisire's participation as a panelist in a session on Men and Care. During the discussion, he shared RWAMREC's experience implementing the internationally recognized Bandebereho Program, which engages men as caring fathers, supportive partners, and champions of gender equality. Fidele Rutayisire, RWAMREC Executive Director at the MenCare Changemaker Summit. Drawing on nearly two decades of RWAMREC's work in Rwanda, he highlighted how engaging men in caregiving and unpaid care work has contributed to: Improved family relationships and communication; Increased men's participation in childcare and household responsibilities; Reduced intimate partner violence; Better maternal and child health outcomes; Stronger gender equality within households and communities. The discussion generated significant interest among participants from different regions of the world who were eager to learn from Rwanda's experience and the evidence generated through Bandebereho. Fidele Rutayisire speaking during the Men and Care panel discussion at the MenCare Changemaker Summit. Strengthening RWAMREC's Global Leadership Participation in the MenCare Changemaker Summit provided an important opportunity for RWAMREC to contribute to global conversations on men's health, care work, and gender equality while building new partnerships with international leaders and organizations working to transform harmful gender norms. The summit reaffirmed RWAMREC's belief that engaging men and boys is essential for creating healthier families, advancing women's rights, promoting positive masculinity, and building more equitable societies. Reflecting on the experience, Fidele Rutayisire stated: The summit demonstrated that around the world, many of the challenges facing men and boys are interconnected. By promoting caring masculinities, supporting men's wellbeing, and encouraging men's active participation in care work, we can create positive outcomes not only for men themselves but also for women, children, families, and entire communities. Rwanda has valuable lessons to share, and we also have much to learn from our global colleagues. As the MenCare Changemaker Journey continues toward the next global summit in Australia in 2027, RWAMREC remains committed to contributing African perspectives, evidence, and innovation to the global movement for gender equality and caring masculinities. Fidele Rutayisire, Gary Barker and other change makers at the Rio Summit. Together, we can build a world where caring manhood is the new normal.

St. Michael School was one of the businesses and institutions selected to participate in the Engaging Men for Gender Equality in the Private Sector project, implemented by RWAMREC with support from GIZ Rwanda. Following the training, teachers reflected on practical ways to promote gender equality and create a safer environment for all students. One of the key initiatives they introduced was the creation of a dedicated girls' room where female students can manage menstruation with dignity, privacy, and comfort. The space provides support to girls during their menstrual periods and helps ensure that menstruation does not become a barrier to learning. The teachers also recognized the importance of preventing sexual harassment within the school community. To raise awareness and foster a culture of respect, they displayed anti-sexual-harassment posters throughout the school premises, making it clear that harassment is unacceptable and informing students and staff about appropriate behavior and reporting mechanisms. Inspired by the positive action taken by St. Michael School, RWAMREC developed a set of anti-sexual-harassment posters and signs that organizations can freely download and display in their workplaces, schools, and institutions. Through this initiative, RWAMREC aims to support more organizations in creating safe, respectful, and gender-responsive environments for everyone.

Equipping CHW supervisors, health center heads, and sanitation officers with gender-transformative skills in Burera, Gakenke, and Musanze From 20 to 22 May 2026, the Rwanda Men's Resource Centre (RWAMREC) successfully conducted a three-day training on Gender Transformative Approaches (GTA) for 100 health system actors across three districts in Northern Rwanda. The training, held under the Bandebereho Scale-Up Project, targeted newly recruited Community Health Worker (CHW) supervisors, heads of health centers, and hygiene and sanitation officers at sector level in Burera, Gakenke, and Musanze Districts. What Are Gender Transformative Approaches and Why Do They Matter? Gender Transformative Approaches (GTA) are strategies that go beyond addressing the symptoms of gender inequality — they actively challenge and change the social norms, power dynamics, and structures that drive it. In the context of community health, GTA equips health workers to address the root causes of gender-based violence (GBV), promote healthier family relationships, and build more equitable communities. For frontline health actors such as CHW supervisors and health center leaders, understanding GTA is essential. These individuals are often the first point of contact for families and communities facing GBV, poor health outcomes linked to gender inequality, and harmful social norms. When health workers are trained in GTA, they become powerful agents of change at the community level. About the Training: Who Was Involved and What Was Covered? The three-day Bandebereho Scale-Up GTA training brought together 100 participants, including: Newly recruited Community Health Worker (CHW) supervisors Heads of health centers Hygiene and sanitation officers at the sector level The training aimed to equip these key actors with the knowledge, attitudes, and skills needed to support and sustain gender-transformative programming in their communities. Participants engaged with practical tools and frameworks to integrate gender equality principles into their daily work — from home visits to community health campaigns. A Call to Expand: Including Security Personnel in Future GTA Trainings One of the most significant outcomes of the training was a recommendation from participants themselves. At the close of the three days, participants called for security personnel to be included in future GTA trainings, specifically: Staff from the Rwanda Investigation Bureau (RIB) Officers from the Rwanda National Police Personnel from the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) This recommendation reflects a growing recognition that GBV response is not the responsibility of health workers alone. Security forces interact regularly with GBV survivors and perpetrators, and their ability to respond in a gender-sensitive, trauma-informed way is critical to effective community-level GBV prevention and response. District Leadership Commends RWAMREC's Work At the closing ceremony, the District leader delivered remarks commending RWAMREC for the relevance and quality of the Bandebereho Scale-Up programming. The leader called on all participants to actively support CHWs in their ongoing efforts to promote gender equality and healthier family relationships within their villages — a call to action that underscores the importance of multi-level commitment to gender-transformative change. The Bandebereho Scale-Up Project: Transforming Communities Across Rwanda This training is part of RWAMREC's broader Bandebereho Scale-Up Project, which works to engage men and boys as partners in promoting gender equality, improving maternal and child health outcomes, and reducing GBV across Rwanda. By working through existing health system structures — including CHWs and health center leadership — the project ensures that gender-transformative approaches are embedded into community health delivery at scale. Looking Ahead With 100 newly trained health actors now equipped with GTA knowledge and tools, RWAMREC and its partners are strengthening the foundation for a more gender-responsive health system in Northern Rwanda. The call to include security forces in future trainings signals an important next step — broadening the circle of change to ensure that every actor who interacts with vulnerable community members is equipped to do so with a gender lens. Stay connected with RWAMREC's work: Follow us on our social media channels or visit rwamrec.org for updates on the Bandebereho Scale-Up Project and other programs.

International Family Day — May 15, 2026 | Gakenke, Rwanda Jean de Dieu believed a man's duty ended at the field. Clarisse carried the weight of the home alone. Then came Bandebereho — and everything changed. On International Family Day, RWAMREC shares their story from Gakenke, Rwanda. In the hills of Gakenke District, a man once believed that stepping into a kitchen would cost him his dignity. Today, he cooks willingly — and calls it love. Every year on May 15th, the world celebrates the International Day of Families — a moment to reflect on what families need to truly thrive: safety, equality, respect, and shared responsibility. At RWAMREC, we mark this day not with slogans, but with stories. Stories of real people who had the courage to change. This is the story of Jean de Dieu Munyabuhoro, 38, and his wife Clarisse Mujawimanzi, 32, from the Gakenke District — a couple married for nine years whose journey of transformation captures exactly why RWAMREC's work matters. The Weight Clarisse Carried Alone Like many couples in their community, Jean de Dieu and Clarisse began their marriage shaped by deeply embedded gender norms. He was Catholic; she was Protestant from the ADEPR church. The religious difference created friction. But it was the unspoken rules about what men do and what women do that defined — and divided — their home. Jean de Dieu worked the fields with Clarisse. When they returned home, his work, he believed, was done. I would sit down to eat the food she had prepared, go out to collect fodder for our livestock, and later meet other men to socialize and drink. I believed that household chores were entirely her duty — as if she were a machine. — Jean de Dieu Munyabuhoro, Gakenke District When he came home and found something undone, he didn't ask questions. He spoke harshly. When Clarisse told him the workload was too much, he shut her down: Do you expect me, a man, to cook, fetch water, wash the children, or sweep the house? My job is to cultivate and find fodder for the animals. The rest is your work and that of the children. — Jean de Dieu, recalling his former beliefs He also feared the judgment of his neighbors. Being seen in the kitchen felt like public humiliation. "If someone saw me cooking," he admits, "they would laugh at me, saying I was a food lover, a glutton, or a big eater. If anyone found me washing a child, they would think I had been bewitched." Meanwhile, Clarisse lived in quiet exhaustion. Her church held overnight prayer programs — gatherings central to her faith. Before leaving, she had to cook food that could last several days, prepare everything the children would need, and still carry the worry home with her into the sanctuary. Even during prayers, my heart was never at peace because I kept worrying about home. — Clarisse Mujawimanzi, Gakenke District What Is Bandebereho — and Why Does It Matter? Jean de Dieu and Clarisse's lives changed when they began attending RWAMREC's flagship program: Bandebereho. Bandebereho means "role model" in Kinyarwanda — and that is precisely what the program sets out to create. Launched by RWAMREC in 2013, Bandebereho is Rwanda's leading gender-transformative program for couples and parents. Unlike programs that focus only on women, Bandebereho engages men as allies and change-makers. Using fatherhood as an entry point, it works with parents of young children through small group sessions led by trained community health workers. Couples explore shared caregiving, joint decision-making, non-violent communication, sexual and reproductive health, and family finances — together. Bandebereho is not classroom theory. It is community-embedded and deeply practical. Participants go home, try what they have learned, and return to reflect. Change happens session by session, conversation by conversation. A six-year randomized controlled trial — one of the most rigorous studies of any gender program in sub-Saharan Africa — documented lasting reductions in intimate partner violence, greater male involvement in antenatal care, improved mental health, and measurable shifts toward more equitable households. To date, Bandebereho has reached over 40,000 couples and 600,000 people across Rwanda, and is now being integrated into the country's national health system — with a goal of reaching 80,000 additional couples by 2027. Sessions That Changed Everything When Jean de Dieu began attending Bandebereho, something shifted. Not dramatically, not overnight. But session by session, the walls he had built around his role as a man began to crack. "After attending the sessions, my mindset completely changed," he says. "I realized that caring for the family is a shared responsibility. Supporting my wife does not make me less of a man. It strengthens our relationship and sets a good example for our children, who will one day build their own families." Clarisse describes how the change took shape at home: Sometimes, after returning from the sessions, we would sit together and discuss what we had learned, then try to apply it at home. This transformation did not happen in a single day but grew gradually as we continued to attend the sessions and practice what we learned. — Clarisse Mujawimanzi Today, Clarisse can attend a two- or three-day church prayer program without a flicker of anxiety about what she has left behind. Because what she has left behind is a husband who shows up. My husband now cooks, takes the children to school, fetches water, feeds the livestock, washes the clothes, and keeps the house clean. He does it willingly, and it has become part of our daily life together. — Clarisse Mujawimanzi, Gakenke District When the Community Pushed Back The road was not without obstacles. Some neighbors watched Jean de Dieu's transformation with suspicion and mockery. They hadn't attended the sessions. They hadn't changed. And in communities where rigid norms are enforced collectively, a man who steps out of line becomes a target. They mocked me, saying that I was now doing women's work and acting like a child because I attended free sessions. But when I looked at the benefits — taking better care of my family, communicating with my wife, making joint decisions, managing our money wisely instead of wasting it in bars, and feeling more love and peace at home — I knew I had made the right choice. — Jean de Dieu Munyabuhoro, Gakenke District Rather than retreating, Jean de Dieu became an advocate. He told his neighbors the program "brings many blessings" and encouraged them to join. He turned his own change into a catalyst for others. Clarisse, too, faced pressure — but her anchor was the tangible progress she could see in their daily life: Before the program, when I got money, I used to spend it however I wanted — buying clothes for myself or the children, or helping my relatives without discussing it with my husband. Now we plan together and use our money for what benefits the whole family. This has helped us make real progress, such as buying a piece of land and livestock. — Clarisse Mujawimanzi, Gakenke District A Family Rebuilt on Partnership Jean de Dieu and Clarisse are not a fairy tale. They are a real couple in Kabeza Village who did the hard, unglamorous work of unlearning — of questioning what they had been taught, disagreeing with their neighbors, and choosing to show up for each other differently. Their story illustrates what RWAMREC has always believed: men are not the problem to be worked around — they are part of the solution. When men are given the tools and the space to reflect, to question, and to step into true partnership, entire families are transformed. And when families change, communities follow. Jean de Dieu closes with a message that deserves to echo far beyond Gakenke: I sincerely thank RWAMREC, the community health workers, and the local leaders who have supported us throughout this journey. I wish that the Bandebereho program continues to expand so that many more couples can benefit as we did. I always encourage other men to join Bandebereho and to take an active role in caregiving — working hand in hand with their wives by cooking, cleaning, fetching water, helping the children with school, and caring for livestock for the well-being of their families. — Jean de Dieu Munyabuhoro, Gakenke District This International Family Day, Be the Change. RWAMREC's Bandebereho program is transforming families across Rwanda — one conversation, one couple, one community at a time. If you believe that gender equality begins at home, and that men can be allies rather than obstacles, we invite you to learn more, share this story, and support our work. 🔗 www.rwamrec.org 📧 info@rwamrec.org

Driving Measurable Change in Rwanda The RWAMREC Annual Report 2025 highlights a year of scalable, evidence-based impact advancing gender equality and preventing violence across Rwanda. In 2025, RWAMREC worked at the intersection of community transformation and national systems, delivering results that are both measurable and sustainable. From households to policy level, the organization continues to demonstrate that engaging men and transforming gender norms leads to lasting change. Impact at Scale: Reaching Communities Across Rwanda RWAMREC’s work reached people across 24 districts, combining direct engagement with large-scale awareness efforts: 41,742 people directly reached through programs and community activities 47,742 individuals engaged including couples, youth, refugees, and institutional actors 440 persons with disabilities included, ensuring inclusive programming 3.7 million people reached indirectly through media, advocacy, and digital engagement Participants became agents of change, promoting gender-equitable norms within families and communities. Addressing One of Rwanda’s Most Pressing Challenges RWAMREC’s work responds to persistent inequalities: 37% of women in Rwanda have experienced physical violence 23% have experienced sexual violence 46% of ever-married women have experienced partner violence These realities are rooted in deeply entrenched gender norms, which RWAMREC addresses through gender-transformative approaches that engage men as part of the solution. Bandebereho: A Proven Model for Transforming Families At the core of RWAMREC’s impact is Bandebereho, a flagship program engaging fathers and couples to promote positive masculinities and healthy, equitable relationships. Proven Results 60% reduction in emotional intimate partner violence 53% reduction in economic violence 35% reduction in sexual violence 32% reduction in physical violence The program also: Increased men’s involvement in childcare and antenatal care Improved mental health for both men and women Strengthened communication and shared decision-making within couples 2025 Delivery 28,634 parents trained through structured 17-week sessions 617 Community Health Workers trained 3,012 local leaders engaged Bandebereho is now integrated into Rwanda’s national health system, positioning it for national scale. Beyond One Program: A Portfolio Driving Change RWAMREC’s impact extends across multiple sectors: Economic Empowerment – Kataza Operates in 15 districts Expands access to finance for women and youth Promotes equitable financial decision-making and entrepreneurship Edutainment for Behavior Change – Twubakane Reached tens of thousands through radio storytelling Pilot results show: 40% decline in violence 90% improved relationships 85% improved communication Health Equity and Inclusion Projects in districts like Musanze and Karongi Address barriers to care for women and persons with disabilities Promote equitable access to essential health services From Communities to Systems: National Influence In 2025, RWAMREC strengthened its role as a national and policy-level actor: Contributed to the launch of the National Strategy for Engaging Men and Boys for Gender Equality Integrated male engagement indicators into the national health monitoring system (RHMIS) Participated in global platforms such as CSW69 These milestones demonstrate RWAMREC’s ability to translate community-based impact into systemic change. A Model Built on Evidence, Efficiency, and Trust RWAMREC combines strong program performance with organizational accountability: Over 90% of expenditure directed to program delivery New Strategic Plan 2025–2028 finalized Strengthened safeguarding and data protection systems This ensures that investments translate into real, measurable outcomes for communities. How Change Happens: A Multi-Level Approach RWAMREC’s model works across four levels: Individuals: engaging men, women, and youth Households: strengthening relationships and shared responsibilities Communities: shifting norms and mobilizing leaders Institutions: influencing policies and systems The result is a network effect, where change spreads from families to communities and into national systems. Why RWAMREC Matters Now At a time when global progress on gender equality remains fragile, the RWAMREC Annual Report 2025 demonstrates that: Violence can be reduced through proven interventions Gender norms can change at scale Engaging men is essential for sustainable equality RWAMREC’s work shows that change is not only possible—it is visible, measurable, and replicable. Explore the Full Report

1. Organizational Background The Rwanda Men’s Resource Centre (RWAMREC) is a non-governmental organization committed to promoting gender equality through positive masculinities and male engagement approaches aimed at preventing gender-based violence (GBV) in Rwanda. RWAMREC works across four key programmatic areas: Community Empowerment and Sustainability Peaceful and Healthy Families Child Support and Youth Mentorship Institutional Capacity Development Diversity, inclusion, and gender justice are integrated as cross-cutting themes throughout all RWAMREC programs. RWAMREC currently operates in 23 districts across Rwanda’s four provinces. 2. Kataza Project Context and Rationale Despite Rwanda’s significant progress in advancing gender equality through strong national policies and institutional frameworks, gender inequalities persist at the household level. Unequal power relations, restrictive gender norms, and gender-based violence continue to undermine women’s agency, decision-making power, and access to economic opportunities. The Rwanda MSME Financing Program, implemented by the Development Bank of Rwanda (BRD) under the Kataza Project, seeks to increase access to finance for small enterprises while ensuring that young women and families benefit from expanded economic opportunities. Within this framework, RWAMREC integrates the Journey of Transformation (JoT), a gender-transformative approach designed to engage couples in dialogue and reflection on: Gender norms Shared decision-making Household communication Non-violent relationships This is delivered through a structured twelve-week training curriculum. Through this initiative: Approximately 2,700 couples will participate in the JoT curriculum; and A wider group of approximately 18,500 participants will be reached through the financial inclusion component of the Kataza Program across 15 districts. Evidence indicates that financial inclusion alone does not automatically result in equitable household relationships or improved family well-being. Where restrictive gender norms and unequal power dynamics persist, economic empowerment interventions may fail to produce sustainable improvements and may even increase the risk of household conflict or GBV. In this context, RWAMREC seeks to conduct: A baseline assessment to establish the initial conditions of participating households and examine how financial access interacts with gender relations, household decision-making, and GBV risks; and An end-line assessment to measure changes over time and assess the impact of the Journey of Transformation approach. The findings from the baseline assessment will inform program implementation and establish benchmarks for measuring change. The end-line assessment will generate rigorous evidence on outcomes achieved, contributing to learning, accountability, and future program design. 3. Purpose of the Baseline and End-Line Assessment The overall purpose of the assessments is to establish pre-intervention and post-intervention evidence on household dynamics, gender norms, financial decision-making, and GBV risks among couples participating in the Kataza Project. Specific Objectives The assessment aims to: Establish baseline data on couples’ attitudes and practices related to: Household decision-making Economic management Division of unpaid care work Assess prevailing gender norms related to: Women’s financial leadership Asset ownership and control Men’s participation in domestic responsibilities Examine how access to finance interacts with: Household gender dynamics; and Risks of gender-based violence Identify key enablers and barriers influencing whether financial access leads to equitable and cooperative household relationships. Develop measurable indicators to assess the impact of the Journey of Transformation curriculum within the financial inclusion context throughout the project lifecycle. Measure changes between baseline and end-line assessments to determine the outcomes and impact of the JoT curriculum among treatment and comparison groups. Generate evidence on the added value of the gender-transformative approach and provide recommendations for: Scale-up Adaptation Future programming 4. Scope of Work RWAMREC seeks to engage a qualified consultancy firm or individual consultant to conduct both the baseline and end-line studies using a rigorous mixed-methods approach. Study Design The study will adopt a quasi-experimental design comparing: Couples participating in the Journey of Transformation curriculum; and Couples benefiting from financial access initiatives but not participating in the JoT curriculum. This design will enable RWAMREC to: Assess whether JoT contributes to improved gender relations beyond the effects of financial inclusion alone; and Measure the magnitude of change between baseline and end-line. Key Responsibilities The consultant will work closely with RWAMREC’s MELI Manager to: Finalize the study design and methodology for both assessments Develop and refine quantitative and qualitative data collection tools Train enumerators and supervise field data collection for both rounds Conduct data cleaning, analysis, and interpretation Produce a comprehensive baseline assessment report Produce a comprehensive end-line assessment report, including comparative analysis of change Present findings and recommendations to RWAMREC and project stakeholders 5. Methodology Both the baseline and end-line assessments will use a mixed-methods research design, combining quantitative and qualitative data collection approaches applied consistently across both rounds to enable valid comparison. 5.1 Quantitative Survey A structured household questionnaire will be administered digitally using KoBoToolbox. To ensure confidentiality and reduce response bias: Each partner (husband and wife/partner) will be interviewed separately. The same questionnaire and protocol will be used during the end-line assessment to enable rigorous before-and-after comparison. Survey Modules The survey will include modules on: Household demographics Household decision-making and financial management Gender norms and attitudes Division of unpaid care work Partner support and communication Experiences and perceptions of gender-based violence 5.2 Qualitative Data Collection Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) will be conducted during both baseline and end-line phases to provide deeper insights into: Gender norms and social expectations Household communication and conflict resolution Perceptions of financial empowerment Barriers to equitable household practices At the end-line stage, qualitative inquiry will additionally explore: Mechanisms and pathways of change; and How and why transformation occurred (or did not occur) at household level. 6. Key Deliverables The consultant will be expected to deliver the following outputs: 6.1 Inception Report Including: Detailed study methodology and evaluation design for both phases Data collection tools and sampling framework Panel tracking and attrition management plan Detailed work plan and implementation timeline 6.2 Refined Data Collection Tools Including: Household survey questionnaire Focus Group Discussion guides Enumerator training materials 6.3 Data Collection and Analysis Including: Supervision of field data collection Data cleaning and validation Statistical and thematic analysis of findings 6.4 Baseline Assessment Report A comprehensive report including: Baseline indicators and findings Analysis of household gender dynamics and economic management Gender norms and GBV risk analysis Identification of barriers and enablers to equitable household practices Recommendations for strengthening program implementation 6.5 End-Line Data Collection and Analysis Including: Supervision of end-line field data collection using the same tools and protocols as the baseline Panel data tracking and attrition reporting Data cleaning and validation Statistical and thematic analysis, including difference-in-differences or equivalent comparative analysis 6.6 End-Line Assessment Report A comprehensive report including: End-line indicators and findings Comparative analysis of change between baseline and end-line for treatment and comparison groups Assessment of the added value of the JoT curriculum on household gender transformation Analysis of equity, inclusion, and differential outcomes by: Gender Age Geographic area Key lessons learned and recommendations for future programming and scale-up 6.7 PowerPoint Presentations Baseline Presentation Summary of: Key findings Insights Recommendations End-Line Presentation Summary of: Key outcomes Comparative findings Strategic recommendations 6.8 Datasets Baseline Raw dataset Cleaned/final dataset End-Line Raw dataset Cleaned/final dataset 7. Qualifications and Skills The consultant or consulting firm should possess the following qualifications: A Master’s degree in: Development Studies Gender Studies Social Sciences Economics Statistics Public Policy Or related fields At least 10 years of proven experience conducting: Research studies Program evaluations Gender equality assessments Economic empowerment or GBV-related evaluations Strong expertise in: Quantitative and qualitative research methods Survey design Statistical analysis Qualitative data analysis Longitudinal and difference-in-differences analysis Demonstrated experience in: Gender-transformative programming Male engagement approaches Household-level research Financial inclusion programs Community development initiatives Proven experience conducting: Baseline and end-line evaluations Panel data management Attrition analysis Excellent analytical and report-writing skills Fluency in: English Kinyarwanda 8. Evaluation Criteria Criteria Score Methodology 30 Work Plan 10 Qualifications and Experience 30 Financial Proposal 30 Total 100 Note: Any candidate scoring below 42 out of 70 (equivalent to 60%) in the technical evaluation will not qualify for the financial evaluation stage. 9. Duration of the Consultancy The consultancy assignment will be conducted over a period of six (6) months: Baseline Phase June – August 2026(Approximately three months) Activities include: Inception Data collection Analysis Reporting End-Line Phase January – March 2027(Approximately three months) Activities include: End-line data collection Comparative analysis Final reporting The exact timing of the end-line phase will be determined in consultation with RWAMREC’s MELI Manager based on the implementation timeline of the program. 10. Procedure for Submission of Proposals Interested candidates are required to submit the following documents: Technical Proposal A proposal outlining: Proposed methodology Work plan Timeline for both baseline and end-line phases Maximum length: 4 pages Financial Proposal A financial proposal covering both phases: Maximum length: 1 page Currency: Rwandan Francs (RWF) Inclusive of all applicable taxes Curriculum Vitae (CV) Including: At least two professional references CVs of any additional consultants involved in the assignment Sample of Previous Work At least one example of similar work conducted previously, such as: Evaluation reports Research studies Preferably involving both baseline and end-line components Submission Details Applications should be addressed to the Executive Director of RWAMREC and submitted electronically with the subject line: “Baseline and End-Line Assessment on Household Gender Transformation within the Kataza Project” Submission Address RWAMRECYYUSSA Plaza, KimironkoTel: +250 788 315 140Email: info@rwamrec.org Only complete applications submitted before 01 June 2026 will be considered. Done at Kigali, 11 May 2026 Fidèle RUTAYISIREExecutive Director, RWAMREC

By RWAMREC | Faces of Change | Musanze District, Rwanda "After they removed the bandage, I immediately saw the hills of my home area. It had been a long time since I had seen." — Velediana Ntahorutaba, 77, Musanze District A Life Slowly Dimming For Velediana Ntahorutaba, the world did not go dark all at once. It faded — slowly, quietly, the way dusk settles over the hills of Musanze. Shapes became shadows. Faces became blurs. The fields she had worked her whole life became places she could no longer navigate alone. Velediana is 77 years old. She lives in Gahanga Village, Rugeshi Cell, Nkotsi Sector, in the heart of Musanze District in northern Rwanda. Like many older people in her community, she had been living with deteriorating vision for years — not because treatment was unavailable, but because no one had ever told her that what she was experiencing was not simply the inevitable consequence of growing old. She could not see the faces of people standing right in front of her. She could not farm. She could not fully participate in the life of her community. And yet, for a long time, she waited. The Day Everything Changed When Velediana finally went for treatment at Shyira Hospital, surgeons performed cataract surgery on one of her eyes. She does not describe the procedure in complicated terms. What she remembers — what she will never forget — is the moment the bandage came off. After they removed the bandage, I immediately saw the hills of my home area. For most people, seeing a hill is unremarkable. For Velediana, after years of blindness, it was everything. The rolling green landscape of Musanze — the same hills she had known her entire life — came flooding back in one overwhelming moment of clarity. She went home. She returned to her farm. She began to live again. A Ripple Through the Community What happened next is perhaps just as remarkable as Velediana's own recovery. Her neighbors — women and men her own age, people who had watched her struggle and then witnessed her transformation — came to see for themselves. They needed to confirm with their own eyes that she had truly recovered. That it was real. That it was possible. And then, one by one, they followed her. Many of them have come here to the campaign so that they can also get treatment for eye diseases, Velediana says with quiet pride. This is how change travels in a community — not through posters or announcements, but through the living testimony of someone you trust. Velediana did not set out to be an advocate. She simply got better. And in getting better, she became the most powerful argument her community had ever seen for seeking care. Coming Back for More Today, Velediana has returned to the outreach and screening campaign in Nkotsi Sector — not for herself alone, but also for her second eye, which is also affected by cataracts. She is not afraid. She has seen what is possible. she says. I have confidence that the second eye will also heal. Before, I could not farm. But now I am able to. Going to the hospital is important. She repeats it like a message she wants to make sure the world hears: going to the hospital is important. It is the kind of sentence that sounds simple until you understand everything that stood in the way of her saying it — and believing it — for so many years. The Barrier Behind the Blindness Velediana's story is deeply personal. It is also deeply common. Across Rwanda, cataracts are one of the leading causes of preventable blindness — a condition that is fully treatable with a straightforward surgical procedure, yet one that thousands of people live with untreated for years. The reason is rarely a lack of hospitals or surgeons. The reason is everything that happens before a person decides to walk through the door of a health center. Cultural beliefs tell people that failing eyesight is simply part of aging — something you accept, not something you treat. Traditional remedies are tried first, sometimes for years, sometimes making conditions worse. For women, the barriers are layered: they may lack the financial independence to seek care, the decision-making power to go without permission, or the time to prioritize their own health over the needs of their family. For men, the pressure to appear strong and self-sufficient can make admitting to a health problem feel like a sign of weakness. These are not medical barriers. They are social ones. And they require social solutions. The Project Changing How Communities See Eye Health This is the challenge that RWAMREC's Health System Strengthening for Eye Health project was designed to address. Funded by the Fred Hollows Foundation, in partnership with LDSC and Australian Aid, the project operates in Musanze and Karongi districts with a clear and ambitious goal: to promote gender equity and inclusion in eye health by changing the attitudes and behaviors that stop people from seeking care in the first place. Rather than relying on top-down health messaging, the project takes a gender-transformative, community-led approach — building a chain of trusted people within communities who can carry the message where it matters most. How it works The project trains community health workers (CHWs), local and religious leaders, healthcare providers, and members of Men Engage clubs on three interconnected themes: eye health, gender equality, and disability inclusion. These individuals then carry that knowledge back into their communities — through home visits, church gatherings, community meetings, school outreach, and one-on-one conversations with neighbors. The idea is simple but powerful: people are far more likely to seek care when they hear about it from someone they already trust. Outreach campaigns bring eye health services directly into communities, with on-site screenings conducted by ophthalmologists from Ruhengeri and Kibuye referral hospitals. Radio dramas — developed in collaboration with Urunana DC and broadcast on RC Musanze — reach audiences who may never attend a campaign in person. Information, education, and communication (IEC) materials developed through co-creation workshops ensure that messages are culturally grounded and community-owned. The results after one year In just its first year of implementation (July 2024 – June 2025), the project reached: Over 276,000 people through awareness campaigns, home visits, and outreach events in Musanze and Karongi districts More than 1,000 cataract cases identified and referred for treatment 2,000+ community health workers, leaders, and club members trained on eye health and gender norms A threefold increase in monthly eye consultations at some health centers — from 50 to over 150 patients per month Behind every one of those numbers is a person. A neighbor who finally went to the clinic. A father who admitted his vision was failing. A grandmother who came back for her second eye. Why Gender Equity Is Central to Eye Health RWAMREC's approach is rooted in a foundational insight: you cannot solve a health access problem with medical solutions alone. For women like Velediana, gender inequality shapes every step of the health-seeking journey — from whether she feels entitled to prioritize her own health, to whether she has the resources and freedom to act on that decision. For men in her community, the same cultural norms that pressure them to appear invulnerable quietly stop them from seeking treatment for conditions that are entirely curable. By engaging men as allies rather than bystanders — and by training community leaders to actively challenge these norms — the project creates an environment in which seeking care becomes not just acceptable, but expected. It becomes what responsible, caring community members do. This is what makes Velediana's story so powerful. She did not just recover her sight. She became, without intending to, a living rebuke to every cultural belief that had kept her and her neighbors from seeking help. Her recovery was the proof her community needed. A Future Where No One Has to Wait RWAMREC's vision for this project is ambitious and clear: a community that no longer needs to be told to seek eye care — one that simply does. That kind of lasting change does not happen overnight. It requires sustained engagement, trusted relationships, and a community that has internalized the belief that their health — every member's health — is worth fighting for. It requires more Veledianas: people whose recoveries become living testimonies that ripple outward through families, through neighborhoods, through generations. Year two of the project will expand these efforts to additional districts, deepen partnerships with schools and religious networks, and continue building the community infrastructure that will sustain this change long after the intervention ends. Velediana's Message Before leaving the campaign in Nkotsi, Velediana has one thing she wants people to know. She has said it to her neighbors. She says it to anyone who will listen. She will say it again now, clearly and without hesitation: Going to the hospital is important. It is a sentence that cost her years to learn. It is a sentence that, thanks to the community health workers, local leaders, and outreach teams who showed up in her village, more and more people in Musanze and Karongi are finally hearing — and believing. Velediana Ntahorutaba lives in Gahanga Village, Nkotsi Sector, Musanze District, Rwanda. Her testimony was collected during the RWAMREC outreach and cataract screening campaign in Nkotsi as part of the Health System Strengthening for Eye Health project, 2024–2025. To learn more about RWAMREC's work on gender equity and health, visit rwamrec.org.

Published May 8, 2026 · Rwanda Men's Resource Centre (RWAMREC) In the first quarter of 2026, the Rwanda Men's Resource Centre (RWAMREC) continued its mission of advancing gender equality in Rwanda — one family, one community, and one story at a time. From transforming fatherhood norms to scaling women-led self-help groups, this recap highlights the people, programs, and partnerships driving real change across the country. We also launched our 2025 Annual Report and the "Faces of Change" storytelling platform, giving a voice to the individuals at the heart of this work. From provider to partner: redefining fatherhood through Bandebereho The Bandebereho program continues to challenge harmful gender norms by engaging men as active caregivers and equal partners at home. One participant's journey illustrates just how transformative this shift can be: before joining the program, he saw financial provision as his sole role as a husband. Through Bandebereho, he began sharing domestic responsibilities, attending antenatal care with his wife, and taking a hands-on role in parenting. This is what gender equality in Rwanda looks like at the household level — not just policy, but lived practice. Key achievements this quarter include improved couple communication, increased male engagement in caregiving, and measurable shifts in gender attitudes. RWAMREC is now partnering with Cartier Philanthropy to scale Bandebereho further. From conflict to partnership: transforming relationships through Kataza Adeline and Emmanuel's story shows how shifting gender norms can transform both relationships and economic outcomes. Once marked by conflict and mistrust, their partnership is now grounded in trust, shared responsibility, and joint business management — thanks to RWAMREC's couples sessions under the Kataza initiative. Kataza is a three-year initiative (2024–2027) led by the Development Bank of Rwanda (BRD) with the Mastercard Foundation, reaching 495 couples through its Journey of Transformation, training 64 Growth Guides on Gender Transformative Approaches, and mobilising 100+ community activists. From listening to transformation: changing norms through Twubakane Twubakane is proving that edutainment can be a powerful driver of gender equality in Rwanda. Through a radio drama reaching thousands of households, the program has shown reductions in intimate partner violence, increased joint decision-making, and improved attitudes toward gender equality — with 27,000+ listeners reached and 2,400 couples enrolled in a randomised controlled trial across 96 villages. From marginalization to agency: women leading change through IGIRE MUGORE and Powered by Women IGIRE MUGORE helped establish 13 self-help groups this quarter, supporting women in building financial independence, confidence, and leadership. Meanwhile, Powered by Women (PBW) trained 360 couples and engaged 330 youth across Eastern Province, reaching over 6,000 people through International Women's Day events. Both programs reflect RWAMREC's belief that gender equality in Rwanda is strengthened when women lead — in their homes, their communities, and their economies. From barriers to leadership: young women thriving through Shora Neza In partnership with the World Food Programme (WFP), RWAMREC implemented a gender-transformative component under the Shora Neza program, operating across 43 sectors in 18 districts. Among 560 participants trained in Gender Transformative Approaches, the results were striking: understanding of power dynamics jumped from 27.7% to 98.2%, and the belief that a woman's place is only in the home dropped from 76.2% to just 8.7%. 100 Gender Champions are now leading peer dialogues in cooperatives across 20 sectors. Restoring sight and dignity: eye health for all RWAMREC's Eye Health project reached 295,329 people through awareness campaigns, screened 1,517 individuals, and identified 253 cataract cases — all while removing gender and social barriers to health-seeking. Strong inclusion of persons with disabilities remained a priority. On the global stage: RWAMREC at CSW70 As an ECOSOC-accredited NGO, RWAMREC brought Rwanda's experience to the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW70) in New York, sharing community-based approaches to advancing women's access to justice. Executive Director Fidèle Rutayisire noted: "Women's access to justice often starts at home. Engaging men through dialogue and couples' conversations helps transform power relations and reduce barriers women face in seeking justice." RWAMREC will next showcase its work at the MenCare ChangeMaker Summit in Rio de Janeiro (27–29 May 2026). New collaborations and what's ahead Q1 brought exciting new partnerships — including with Innovations for Poverty Action and the University of Rwanda on the Twubakane RCT, and expanded access to refugee camps in partnership with MINEMA. Coming soon: a Regional Hub on Male Allyship and Positive Masculinities, and a Youth Module developed with UNFPA, UNAIDS, and RRP+ Rwanda. RWAMREC's future priorities include scaling Bandebereho toward nationwide coverage, deepening research and MEAL systems, and addressing all forms of gender-based violence — including technology-facilitated GBV — through culturally grounded prevention campaigns. Shaping masculinities: voices from the community Artist Jean Paul Mugisha's Kwiyuka Ndero exhibition at the Goethe-Institut Kigali explored fatherhood through pyrography, challenging emotional distance and toxic masculinity in parenting. RWAMREC joined the closing ceremony on 3 February 2026, contributing to a growing community conversation on care, vulnerability, and equitable fatherhood. Read the full newsletter: mailchi.mp/rwamrec/2026-newsletter-january-to-march-recap · Contact: info@rwamrec.org

Male allyship training offers a clear path to fostering equality and respect in communities. It equips men and boys with the tools to support gender equality actively. This training is essential for creating safer, more inclusive environments. It also helps reduce gender-based violence and promotes positive masculinities. RWAMREC community facilitator leads an interactive group session where women and men reflect on gender norms, biases, and their impact on families and communities. Understanding Male Allyship Training Benefits Male allyship training benefits individuals and communities by changing attitudes and behaviors. It teaches men to recognize their privilege and use it to support others. The training focuses on respect, empathy, and accountability. It encourages men to speak out against discrimination and violence. For example, a man who completes this training may intervene when witnessing harassment. He learns how to do this safely and effectively. This action helps create a culture where such behavior is not tolerated. The training also helps men understand the impact of toxic masculinity and how to challenge it. Male allyship training benefits workplaces by improving teamwork and communication. When men support gender equality, it leads to better collaboration. This creates a more productive and positive work environment. Companies that invest in this training often see higher employee satisfaction and retention. During GIZ Rwanda’s 2025 International Men’s Day celebration, RWAMREC organized a discussion and reflection session on the “man box,” bringing together women and men to explore how restrictive gender norms shape individuals, relationships, and workplaces. How Male Allyship Training Builds Stronger Communities Communities benefit greatly when men become allies. Male allyship training helps men understand the social norms that contribute to inequality. It provides practical skills to challenge these norms in daily life. This leads to safer neighborhoods and stronger social bonds. In Rwanda, where gender-based violence remains a concern, male allyship training is vital. It supports national efforts to promote gender equality and prevent violence. Men who complete the training often become advocates in their communities. They help spread awareness and encourage others to join the cause. The training also promotes healthy relationships. Men learn to communicate better and respect boundaries. This reduces conflicts and supports family stability. When men model positive behavior, boys and young men learn to do the same. Community Health Workers from the BANDEBEREHO program, equipped and ready to deliver the BANDEBEREHO module on men’s engagement in maternal, newborn and child health, caregiving, and violence prevention, following their own training. Practical Steps to Engage in Male Allyship Training Getting involved in male allyship training is accessible and impactful. RWAMREC offers both in-person and online sessions designed to help participants reflect, learn, and take action toward gender equality. Here’s how to get started: Reach out to us – Contact us at info@rwamrec.org to learn more about upcoming trainings and opportunities. Commit to active participation – Engage openly in discussions, exercises, and reflections. Put learning into practice – Apply the skills and insights in your daily life, workplace, and community. Encourage others to join – Share your experience and invite friends, colleagues, or organizations to organize trainings for their teams. Keep learning – Continue exploring gender equality, positive masculinities, and allyship beyond the training sessions. By taking these steps, men can become stronger allies and contribute to lasting, meaningful change. The Role of Male Allyship in Preventing Gender-Based Violence One of the most critical benefits of male allyship training is its role in preventing gender-based violence. The training helps men understand the root causes of violence and how to intervene. It teaches bystander intervention techniques and promotes respectful behavior. Men learn to recognize warning signs and respond appropriately. This can prevent violence before it occurs. The training also challenges harmful stereotypes that justify or excuse violence. By changing these beliefs, men help create safer environments for everyone. Communities with active male allies see a reduction in violence rates. Men become role models who promote peace and respect. This shift supports broader efforts to end gender-based violence in Rwanda and beyond. RWAMREC trainers engage KATAZA project participants in discussions on gender norms that limit women’s economic and financial inclusion and the role of men as gatekeepers in driving or challenging these barriers. Sustaining Change Through Male Allyship Sustaining the benefits of male allyship training requires ongoing effort. It is not a one-time event but a continuous process. Men must remain committed to learning and growing as allies. Organizations can support this by providing follow-up sessions and resources. Peer support groups also help men stay engaged and accountable. Sharing success stories and challenges encourages others to persist. Men who sustain their allyship contribute to a culture of equality. They influence policies, social norms, and behaviors. This long-term impact is essential for achieving gender equality and preventing violence. Male allyship training benefits extend beyond individuals to transform entire communities. By investing in this training, we build a future where respect and equality are the norm. Male allyship training is a powerful tool for change. It equips men with the knowledge and skills to support gender equality actively. The benefits are clear - safer communities, healthier relationships, and reduced violence. By embracing this training, men can lead the way toward a more just and inclusive society.

Rwanda Men's Resource Center (RWAMREC) at the FAO Sub-Regional Workshop on Gender Equality and Women's Empowerment in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania — April 2026 RWAMREC Takes the Global Stage at FAO's Landmark Gender Equality Workshop In April 2026, the Rwanda Men's Resource Center (RWAMREC) participated in a significant sub-regional event organized by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. This three-day workshop, held from April 21 to 23, gathered around 70 senior stakeholders from seven Eastern and Southern African countries: Ethiopia, Kenya, Malawi, Rwanda, South Africa, Uganda, and Tanzania. The goal was to advance the implementation of the CFS Voluntary Guidelines on Gender Equality and Women's and Girls' Empowerment in the Context of Food Security and Nutrition (VG-GEWGE). RWAMREC's Director of Programs, Gisèle Umutoniwase, was a featured speaker for Focus Area 8: Eliminating Violence and Discrimination. She presented RWAMREC's flagship Bandebereho program as a model for how engaging men can eliminate gender-based violence (GBV) and enhance food security across sub-Saharan Africa. Why This Workshop Mattered: The CFS Voluntary Guidelines on Gender Equality The Voluntary Guidelines on Gender Equality and Women's and Girls' Empowerment in the Context of Food Security and Nutrition were endorsed by the Committee on World Food Security (CFS) in October 2023. These guidelines represent the first global, multilaterally agreed policy framework focused on gender equality and women's empowerment (GEWE) in food security and nutrition. Developed over three years through multistakeholder consultations, the guidelines provide comprehensive recommendations across nine focus areas. These areas include economic empowerment, access to resources, unpaid care work, and the elimination of violence and discrimination. Despite their endorsement, the guidelines are often poorly understood or underutilized by governments and stakeholders in the region. The FAO workshop, supported by the Governments of Switzerland, Canada, and Germany, aimed to change this. RWAMREC was selected to demonstrate what effective implementation looks like on the ground. Learn more: CFS voluntary guidelines on gender equality and women's and girls' empowerment in the context of food security and nutrition RWAMREC's Contribution: The Bandebereho Case Study What Is Bandebereho? Bandebereho means "Role Model" in Kinyarwanda. It is RWAMREC's flagship program and primary model for national scale. Launched in 2013, Bandebereho is a gender-transformative initiative that engages men and couples in challenging harmful gender norms, preventing intimate partner violence (IPV), and improving maternal and child health outcomes, including nutrition. Originally adapted from Equimundo's Program P (designed for Brazil), Bandebereho was contextualized for Rwanda. It has become one of the most rigorously evaluated male engagement programs in sub-Saharan Africa. A country-wide scale-up through Rwanda's community health system began in 2023. This initiative aims to reach all 30 districts of Rwanda within the next seven years. The Link Between GBV, Food Security, and Nutrition Gisèle Umutoniwase's presentation at the FAO workshop highlighted a crucial point: gender-based violence and food insecurity are deeply interconnected. Violence diminishes women's capacity to work, undermines their productivity, and strips them of livelihood assets. GBV compromises women's ability to leverage agricultural opportunities, weakening their contribution to household and national food security. Conversely, food insecurity and household economic stress can trigger or escalate violence, creating a vicious cycle that is hard to break without addressing gender norms directly. This is why Bandebereho aligns with Focus Area 8 of the CFS Voluntary Guidelines. RWAMREC's work is directly relevant to the global food security agenda. How It Works Bandebereho employs a group education model delivered through Rwanda's community health worker (CHW) system. Expectant couples or couples with children under five years old participate in weekly group education sessions facilitated by trained community health workers. The curriculum challenges harmful social and gender norms, promotes equitable sharing of household and caregiving responsibilities, and supports men in becoming active partners in their families' health and wellbeing. Key implementing partners include: RWAMREC — adaptation, implementation, evidence generation, resource mobilization, and scale Equimundo — research support and global technical partnership Government partners — Ministry of Health (MoH), Rwanda Biomedical Center (RBC), National Child Development Agency (NCDA), and the Ministry of Gender and Family Promotion (MIGEPROF), all members of the Bandebereho Technical Advisory Group To date, Bandebereho has reached over 45,000 parents, with more than 1,600 community health workers trained as facilitators. The Evidence: What the Bandebereho Program Has Achieved RWAMREC's evidence base is one of the strongest in the field of male engagement programming globally. It spans a six-year randomized controlled trial (RCT) and recent impact evaluation data from the current scale-up phase. RCT Results (Doyle et al., 2018 — 6-Year Follow-Up) Outcome Result Reduction in physical IPV 55% — women in intervention groups were 55% less likely to report physical IPV Reduction in sexual IPV 42% — women in intervention groups were 42% less likely to report sexual IPV Increase in men doing daily household chores 75% relative increase (from 36% to 63%) Increase in men involved in caregiving (feeding, bathing, playing) 35% relative increase (from 57% to 77%) Scale-Up Impact Evaluation (Burera District, n=400) As Bandebereho scales nationally, the outcomes are holding and, in some cases, improving. The most recent impact evaluation from the current scale-up phase recorded a 55.2% reduction in men's attitudes supporting violence against women from baseline to endline. This demonstrates that the program's transformative effects are sustained and scalable through the community health system. Learn more: www.rwamrec.org/bandebereho Leveraging Evidence to Drive Policy: RWAMREC's Approach to the CFS Guidelines A key recommendation of Focus Area 8 of the CFS Voluntary Guidelines is that governments take evidence-based measures to eliminate all forms of violence by addressing harmful social and gender norms. RWAMREC's Bandebereho program embodies this approach. By generating rigorous evidence and translating it into actionable advocacy, RWAMREC has secured strong government buy-in to institutionalize and scale Bandebereho across Rwanda. The program is currently being scaled in 4 districts with a committed roadmap to reach all 30 districts of the country over the next seven years. This replication model can serve as a guide for other governments in Eastern and Southern Africa. What RWAMREC's Participation at the FAO Workshop Means RWAMREC's presence at the FAO sub-regional workshop indicates a growing recognition that male engagement is central to the gender equality and food security agenda. The VG-GEWGE explicitly calls for engaging men and boys as part of transforming unequal power relations. RWAMREC's Bandebereho program provides one of the most compelling, evidence-backed examples of what that looks like in practice. As governments and stakeholders across Eastern and Southern Africa work to translate the CFS Voluntary Guidelines into national policies and programs, RWAMREC is ready to share its experience, evidence, and implementation model as a resource for the region. About RWAMREC Rwanda Men's Resource Center (RWAMREC) is a Rwandan civil society organization dedicated to promoting gender equality through male engagement. Through its flagship Bandebereho program and broader advocacy work, RWAMREC aims to transform harmful gender norms, prevent gender-based violence, and support healthy, equitable families and communities across Rwanda and the region. Learn more: www.rwamrec.org For more information about RWAMREC's work or the Bandebereho program, contact us at *info@rwamrec.org

Engaging Men for Gender Equality in Rwanda's Private Sector: Why It Matters Gender equality is no longer just a social justice issue—it is a business imperative. Across Rwanda, remarkable progress has been made toward promoting gender equality, yet significant barriers remain, particularly in the private sector. Women continue to face challenges in accessing leadership positions, equal pay opportunities, and safe, inclusive workplaces. Recognizing the critical role men play in transforming workplace cultures, the Engaging Men for Gender Equality in the Private Sector initiative was developed in partnership with GIZ to promote allyship, shared responsibility, and gender-transformative leadership in organizations across Rwanda. This initiative seeks to equip men with the knowledge, skills, and awareness needed to challenge harmful gender norms, support women's advancement, and contribute to more equitable workplaces. Why Engaging Men is Essential for Gender Equality Achieving sustainable gender equality requires the active participation of both women and men. While women have historically led efforts to advance gender rights, meaningful transformation occurs when men become advocates and allies. Men occupy many leadership and decision-making positions within organizations. Their support can influence workplace policies, hiring practices, promotion opportunities, and organizational culture. By actively championing gender equality, men help create environments where everyone can thrive regardless of gender. When men challenge discriminatory practices, speak out against harassment, and advocate for fairness, they contribute to workplaces that are more productive, innovative, and inclusive. Understanding the Five Layers of Gender Inequality Gender inequality operates across multiple levels of society. To effectively address it, organizations must understand how these layers interact: 1. Individual Level Personal beliefs, attitudes, and internalized stereotypes influence how people perceive themselves and others. 2. Interpersonal Level Relationships within families, teams, and peer groups shape expectations about gender roles and responsibilities. 3. Community Level Social norms and cultural expectations influence what behaviors are considered acceptable for women and men. 4. Institutional Level Organizational policies, procedures, and workplace cultures can either promote inclusion or reinforce inequality. 5. Structural Level Laws, economic systems, and governance frameworks shape broader opportunities and barriers for gender equality. Addressing all five levels helps organizations tackle both the symptoms and root causes of gender inequality. What is a Gender Transformative Approach? A gender transformative approach goes beyond simply acknowledging gender disparities. It actively seeks to challenge and transform the systems, norms, and power dynamics that perpetuate inequality. In the workplace, this means: Addressing power imbalances between men and women. Challenging gender stereotypes in recruitment and promotion. Promoting equal opportunities for career advancement. Creating safe workplaces free from harassment and violence. Encouraging respectful and gender-sensitive communication. Organizations that adopt gender-transformative approaches foster cultures where diversity, respect, and inclusion become part of everyday practice. Common Barriers Women Face in the Private Sector Despite progress, many women continue to encounter obstacles that limit their participation and advancement in the workforce. These barriers include: Cultural expectations that prioritize family responsibilities over careers. Unequal distribution of unpaid care and domestic work. Gender bias in recruitment, promotion, and compensation decisions. Limited access to leadership opportunities. Workplace harassment and unsafe working environments. Persistent stereotypes that associate leadership with masculine traits. Addressing these challenges requires both institutional commitment and individual action. The Business Case for Gender Equality Research consistently demonstrates that gender equality benefits businesses and economies alike. Organizations that embrace diversity and inclusion often experience: Increased innovation and creativity. Higher employee engagement and retention. Improved workplace morale and trust. Enhanced reputation among customers and stakeholders. Stronger financial performance. Studies have shown that companies with gender-diverse leadership teams are more likely to outperform their peers on profitability. Family-friendly policies and inclusive workplace practices also contribute to higher employee satisfaction and reduced absenteeism. Simply put, gender equality is not only the right thing to do—it is a smart business strategy. Men as Allies: Practical Actions That Make a Difference Creating gender-equal workplaces starts with everyday actions. Men can contribute by: Listening and Amplifying Women's Voices Ensure meetings and discussions provide equal opportunities for everyone to contribute. Challenge behaviors that silence or interrupt colleagues. Recognizing Unconscious Bias Reflect on assumptions that may influence decisions about hiring, promotion, task allocation, and performance evaluation. Promoting Fair Recognition Focus on performance and achievements rather than appearance or stereotypes. Give credit where it is due. Challenging Harassment and Discrimination Speak up against inappropriate behavior and support workplace mechanisms that promote accountability and safety. Supporting Flexible Work Arrangements Advocate for policies that recognize caregiving responsibilities and promote work-life balance for all employees. Sharing Power and Opportunities Create pathways for leadership development and ensure equitable access to career advancement opportunities. Building Safe and Respectful Workplaces International and national frameworks provide strong guidance for organizations seeking to promote gender equality. These include: ILO Convention 190 on Violence and Harassment in the World of Work. The Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW). Sustainable Development Goal 5 on Gender Equality. Rwanda's Constitution and labor laws that prohibit discrimination and sexual harassment. By aligning workplace practices with these frameworks, organizations can foster environments where all employees feel safe, respected, and valued. A Shared Responsibility for Inclusive Growth Gender equality is not a women's issue—it is everyone's responsibility. Men have a unique opportunity to become champions of change by challenging harmful norms, supporting equitable policies, and modeling inclusive leadership. Through initiatives such as Engaging Men for Gender Equality in the Private Sector, organizations can move beyond awareness toward meaningful action. The result is stronger businesses, healthier workplace cultures, and a more inclusive future for Rwanda. As Rwanda continues its journey toward sustainable development, engaging men as allies will remain essential in creating workplaces where gender equality is not simply an aspiration, but a daily reality.

Rwanda Men's Resource Centre (RWAMREC) has unveiled its updated Strategic Plan, extending its 2022–2026 vision through 2028 with sharper priorities, a streamlined structure, and a renewed commitment to transforming masculinities and ending gender-based violence (GBV) in Rwanda and across the region. What Is RWAMREC and Why Does This Strategic Plan Matter? Founded in 2006 and legally established in 2008, RWAMREC is Rwanda's leading non-governmental organization dedicated to achieving gender equality by engaging men and boys as active allies in preventing gender-based violence. Operating across all 27 districts of Rwanda, RWAMREC has spent nearly two decades reshaping the conversation around masculinity, family health, and community safety. The newly released strategic plan — officially titled the RWAMREC Update 2022–2026 and Extension to 2028 Strategic Plan — is not simply a continuation of past work. It represents a thorough, evidence-based recalibration of the organization's direction, informed by a comprehensive mid-term review and consultations with over 30 stakeholders including staff, community members, donors, and government partners. From Six to Four: A Streamlined Strategic Framework One of the most significant changes in the updated plan is the consolidation of six Key Result Areas (KRAs) into four focused pillars. Two cross-cutting themes — Gender Justice and Diversity & Inclusion — have been mainstreamed across all areas rather than managed in silos. The four KRAs for 2025–2028 are: Community Empowerment and Sustainability Peaceful and Healthy Families Youth Mentorship and Child Support Institutional Capacity Development This streamlined approach reflects a strategic choice to go deeper rather than wider — concentrating resources and expertise where RWAMREC can drive the greatest, most lasting change. Key Result Area 1: Community Empowerment and Sustainability RWAMREC recognizes that gender-based violence is rooted in socially constructed norms. The first KRA targets these roots directly by raising awareness among key stakeholders, building community structures capable of identifying and responding to GBV, and strengthening local mechanisms for violence prevention. A notable addition in this plan is the integration of climate resilience into gender equality programming. RWAMREC will engage men and boys as partners in gender-equitable climate action — conducting community dialogues on how restrictive gender norms worsen climate vulnerability and promoting male-inclusive green livelihoods such as renewable energy and sustainable agriculture. Key Result Area 2: Peaceful and Healthy Families The family is both the site of some of the greatest harm caused by GBV and the most powerful arena for transformation. Under this KRA, RWAMREC will scale up its flagship Bandebereho program — a couples-based, gender-transformative initiative whose six-year Randomized Controlled Trial demonstrated a 45% reduction in intimate partner violence among participants. The updated plan targets 104,000 families through Bandebereho by 2027. Beyond this, RWAMREC will establish free, confidential counseling services for couples and families, promote male engagement in reproductive and maternal health, and strengthen survivor-centered GBV service delivery through standardized protocols and multi-sector referral systems. Key Result Area 3: Youth Mentorship and Child Support With over 40% of Rwanda's population under the age of 15, investing in young people is not optional — it is essential. This KRA focuses on promoting positive masculinities and femininities among adolescents and youth aged 10–24, with targeted programming to challenge harmful gender stereotypes before they become entrenched. RWAMREC's school-based initiatives — including Boys4Change, Girls Take the Lead clubs, and Youth4Change safe spaces — will be expanded and strengthened. The plan also addresses the crisis of teenage pregnancy, a concern underscored by UN Women data showing more than 17,000 cases nationally in 2017, with a 35.3% increase by 2019. Comprehensive reproductive health education and peer-to-peer education models are central to this KRA's strategy. Key Result Area 4: Institutional Capacity Development Transformative social change requires a strong, sustainable organization to drive it. This KRA addresses RWAMREC's internal growth priorities: building a centralized Monitoring, Evaluation, Learning and Impact (MELI) system; diversifying funding beyond traditional donor grants; strengthening communication and visibility; and establishing a regional training hub to build capacity across East Africa and generate sustainable income through fee-based services. The plan sets an ambitious fundraising target of USD 12,141,057 for the full strategic period, with goals to mobilize $10 million cumulatively by 2028 and establish at least five strategic partnerships through the regional hub by 2026. A Theory of Change Built on Evidence RWAMREC's updated Theory of Change is grounded in decades of field experience and rigorous research. It operates on the conviction that lasting gender equality requires change at multiple levels simultaneously — within individuals, households, communities, and institutions. By engaging men not as bystanders but as proactive allies — supportive fathers, equitable partners, and community change agents — RWAMREC creates a ripple effect: transformed men influence families, transformed families shape communities, and transformed communities shift institutions. Programs like Bandebereho, GEWEP, TINYUKA, and Wisigara Umugore exemplify this multi-level approach in practice. Vision and Mission: Unchanged, Unwavering At the heart of this strategic plan lies an unchanged vision: "A peaceful society where women and men share roles and responsibilities in raising families and governing society through equality and respect." RWAMREC's mission — to promote gender equality through transforming masculinities and femininities — is operationalized through awareness creation, advocacy, capacity development, movement building, and service delivery. Its core values of Safety, Equality, Empowerment, Systematic Change, and Partnerships anchor every program and decision. Standing Firm in Challenging Times RWAMREC's Board Chairperson, Rosette Uwizera Mukankomeje, captures the spirit of this moment in the plan's foreword: "At a time when the feminist movement and gender equality are under attack, we do not step back. We remain steadfast in our vision of a peaceful society where men, women, persons with disabilities, youth, refugees, and those not recognized in these categories share responsibilities in their families, communities, countries, and the world." Founder and Executive Director Fidéle Rutayisire echoes this resolve, acknowledging that RWAMREC's work would not be possible without the women who raise their voices, the men who step out of the "man box," and the young people who choose non-violence over replication of harm. What This Means for Rwanda and the Region Rwanda already ranks among the world's leaders in gender equality — placing 39th globally in the Global Gender Gap Index and consistently recognized for high levels of women's political representation. RWAMREC's work both builds on and advances this national commitment, aligning with Rwanda's Vision 2050, the National GBV Prevention Strategy, and the UN Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 5 on Gender Equality. The plan's ambition to establish a regional training hub signals a shift in RWAMREC's role — from a nationally focused NGO to a regional thought leader and knowledge hub on masculinities, male engagement, and GBV prevention across East Africa and beyond. How to Engage With RWAMREC Whether you are a donor, researcher, civil society organization, government partner, or community leader, RWAMREC invites collaboration. The updated strategic plan outlines clear stakeholder engagement pathways — from policy dialogues and joint research to community outreach and survivor-informed program co-design. Contact RWAMREC: Address: KK 15 Ave, Yyusa Plaza, Kimironko, 2nd Floor, Kigali, Rwanda Email: info@rwamrec.org Website: www.rwamrec.org Phone: +250 788 381 183 / +250 788 315 140 Together, let us continue to transform masculinities, challenge harmful norms, and build a society that values equality for all.