At 3E Africa, our mission is ambitious yet vital, to foster sustainable development across the continent through integrated initiatives in environment, entrepreneurship and energy. We believe that true progress requires a holistic approach, leveraging local strengths and engaging every member of the community. While the critical role of women in development is widely recognized and championed, we’re keenly focused on having a good balance of men in our initiatives.
Our on-the-ground experience in Baringo, where many initiatives traditionally focus only on women, has revealed a critical insight, gender-inclusive approaches significantly enhance project success and sustainability. We have observed that women’s groups often benefit from the strategic involvement of a smaller percentage of men. These male participants offer vital support by filling crucial roles that align with traditional skill sets, such as honey harvesting and providing essential guidance in group leadership.
Crucially, our efforts to implement initiatives by involving both men and women at the household level have demonstrated good outcomes. We have consistently found that initiatives supported by both male and female members within the same household experience greater success and deeper sustainability. This reinforces the need to move beyond single gender targeting toward a model of shared responsibility and collective household empowerment.
The active involvement of men is not just beneficial, it’s absolutely crucial for the success and sustainability of our projects. Their participation amplifies our impact, ensures broad community buy-in, and creates a robust foundation for lasting change.
At 3E Africa, we recognize that sustainable development is a team sport. It requires the active, equitable, and meaningful participation of everyone, women, youth, and crucially, men. By intentionally involving men in our environment, entrepreneurship and energy initiatives, we are not just adding numbers, we are unlocking potential, fostering ownership, and building stronger, more resilient communities.
When men stand shoulder-to-shoulder with women and youth, advocating for conservation, embracing clean energy, and pioneering new enterprises, the entire community thrives. Their involvement is not just a complement to our work; it is a fundamental pillar upon which 3E Africa’s vision for a sustainable and prosperous communities is built.
