Christian group warns of crisis facing boy child

A Christian organisation, Men of Valour, Power and Vision (MVPV), has called on society to pay closer attention to the challenges facing the boy child, warning that silence and neglect are slowly destroying a generation.

In an interview yesterday, MVPV media commissioner Tadiwanashe Chakavanda said boys in Zimbabwe are increasingly battling depression, drug abuse and identity crises due to social and emotional struggles that often go unnoticed.

"The world expects the boy to be strong, to man up, to never cry, to never break. But what happens when that strength becomes a mask?" Chakavanda asked.

While applauding ongoing efforts to uplift the girl child, he cautioned that overlooking boys could create an imbalance in national development. He urged communities, leaders and institutions to act before the consequences deepen.

"We propose practical interventions such as safe spaces where boys can speak openly, mentorship programmes led by social experts, and access to mental health services in schools. These measures are essential to protect the livelihoods of our youth and achieve national growth," he said.

Chakavanda stressed the importance of equipping boys with life and economic skills to ensure they grow into responsible men.

"Let's raise boys who are not just physically strong, but emotionally grounded and socially responsible," he said. "We urge communities to create dialogues to challenge toxic masculinity."

MVPV has urged communities across Zimbabwe to initiate programmes that uplift boys and give them the support they need to lead better lives.