Author calls on men to reclaim healthy masculinity

NOVEMBER brings renewed attention to men’s health, well-being and contribution to society, culminating in International Men's Day on November 19.

- LUTHO PASIYA.

FORCE for Good: The Power of Healthy Masculinity redefines what it means to be a man in today's world.

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Fittingly, South African author and men’s development expert Craig Wilkinson has released Force for Good: The Power of Healthy Masculinity, a book that redefines what it means to be a man in today’s world.

Wilkinson, who has spent nearly two decades mentoring men through his nonprofit organisation Father A Nation (FAN), believes that the time has come to reclaim masculinity from the distortions and wounds that have made it synonymous with aggression, dominance or toxicity.

His book presents what he calls “the six virtues of positive masculinity” - a framework for men to rediscover strength, courage and purpose as forces for good.

“There has never been a more urgent time to teach, equip and inspire boys and men to live with strong, healthy masculinity,’ said Wilkinson.

“True masculinity is a great gift to society. When men understand, embrace and express their masculine strength with integrity and love, everyone benefits - women, children and communities alike”

Wilkinson's message comes at a critical moment. South Africa's femicide rate is five times higher than the global average, and gender-based violence (GBV) remains one of the country’s most persistent crises.

At the same time, rates of depression and suicide among men are rising, while public conversations often frame masculinity as something to be fixed or apologised for.

“Masculinity itself is not toxic or trash,’ Wilkinson said.