Journeys of Transformation

Journeys of Transformation works with men and boys to support equality and women’s social, political and economic empowerment.

Engaging men as partners for equality

Women’s empowerment is stronger when men take part. Journeys of Transformation works with men, especially husbands and partners of women in Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLAs), to challenge harmful social norms and build more equal relationships at home and in the community.

The project invites men to take part in weekly group activities that:

  • Help them reflect on rigid social norms, their personal attitudes, and beliefs
  • Encourage them to support women’s roles in earning money and making decisions
  • Promote more equal sharing of housework and caregiving
  • Build respect between partners

The program also offers training for men on:

Business and money management, including joint decision-making with partners

Health and wellbeing, including practical information on general health, reproductive health, sexuality, alcohol use, and stress management

Rights and laws, especially around violence against women and girls and Rwanda’s policies promoting equality.

What changed

This program was tested with a small group of 30 women and their partners. While women continued their usual VSLA training and activities, their partners joined 16 weekly group sessions. A separate group of women continued their savings work without partner engagement, allowing CARE to compare the two approaches.

The families where men joined the program saw powerful results, including:

  • Higher income: Couples in the program nearly doubled their income compared to families who didn’t participate.
  • Shared funds and decisions: Families who participated in the program were more likely to share their income among family members and were more likely to cooperatively make financial decisions.
  • Better balance at home: Men who participated in the program took on more household chores and childcare responsibilities, easing the burden on their wives.
  • Stronger families: Couples who participated in the program reported less violence, better communication, and healthier relationships. They were more likely to discuss family planning, how to care for their children, and how to invest in their future—together.