On September 28th, the Health and Safety Department hosted its annual men’s conference, themed “Building Real Men of Substance,” at the Gulugufe Experience in Chikwawa. The event aimed to unite MLW’s male employees while challenging harmful stereotypes and promoting a culture of health and well-being.
One key highlight of the conference was a community walkathon that raised awareness about men’s mental health. Participants carried placards with messages emphasizing the importance of seeking support, hard work, and adherence to core values.
Stephen Amos, Occupational Health Nurse and one of the organizers, underscored the conference’s objective of fostering a healthier, more productive male workforce. “Many men face challenges such as depression, substance abuse, and risky behaviors, often rooted in harmful beliefs about masculinity,” Amos explained. “We sought to challenge these notions and promote healthier perspectives.”
The conference featured engaging discussions on the detrimental effects of harmful beliefs and strategies for overcoming them. Some of the notable presentations were delivered by Dr. Arox Kamng’ona, Professor of Molecular Biology at Kamuzu University of Health Sciences and Limbani Medi, Senior HR at MLW, who addressed topics such as personal values and relationship dynamics.
“A real man should have clear principles to guide his life. These principles help him achieve his goals and lead a responsible life. When you manage your life well, it’s easier to care for your family and speaking from experience, a man without principles is living recklessly,” said Medi.
Medi encouraged the men to be responsible in their various roles
“It’s crucial for men to understand that it’s okay to experience emotions and seek help,” Amos emphasized. “Real men should prioritize their health, relationships, and personal values.”
Participant Ndaona Mitole shared, “The conference was incredibly beneficial, allowing me to connect with my fellow male colleagues across various departments. This interaction fostered a sense of community, encouraged diverse perspectives, and provided an opportunity to learn and share ideas in an open environment. It also helped me build a supportive network that will be advantageous both personally and professionally.”
To ensure ongoing support for conference participants, MLW has implemented an Employee Assistance Program (EAP). This program offers mental health counseling and support services to help men tackle challenges and maintain their well-being.
