Senegal’s Innovative ’Husband Schools’ Tackle Maternal Mortality Through Gender Equality

In rural Senegal, a unique initiative called ’schools for husbands’ is transforming gender dynamics to address high maternal mortality rates. These community-led workshops teach men about prenatal care, childbirth risks, and the importance of sharing domestic duties. By involving husbands directly, the program aims to dismantle harmful stereotypes and encourage active participation in family health decisions.

The schools operate as informal discussion groups, often led by local health workers or respected elders. Topics range from nutrition during pregnancy to the dangers of delaying medical care. Testimonials from participants highlight how these sessions have reduced stigma around men assisting in childcare or accompanying their wives to clinics. The approach has gained traction, with reported improvements in maternal healthcare access in pilot regions.

Beyond health outcomes, the initiative fosters broader social change. Men who graduate from the program often become advocates, challenging peers to reject outdated norms. Women report feeling more supported in household and healthcare choices. While challenges remain in scaling the model, Senegal’s experiment offers a blueprint for using cultural engagement to tackle systemic health disparities.

maternal healthgender rolesSenegaleducationcommunityhusbandshealthcareAfricaempowermentfamily