When fathers's training transforms homes for the benefit of children
In Ngozi, couples have been trained to adopt equitable gender norms and promote child health, particularly in the fight against polio. This training has transformed their roles as parents and partners.
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It’s 9:30 in the morning, and in a simple but vibrant room in the capital of Ngozi province, the atmosphere is electric. Hands are raised, voices eager to speak. Men and women take turns sharing their stories. The emotion is palpable. What’s being told here goes far beyond a training session; it’s the story of transformation in progress.
With support from UNICEF, in partnership with the Réseau des Confessions Religieuses, 50 couples from the Mwumba commune participated in a training session held from 28 April to 2 May 2025. The sessions focused on adopting positive gender norms and encouraging fathers’ engagement in their children's well-being.
Funded by the Gender Mainstreaming Group for Polio Eradication, the programme is part of a broader effort to eradicate polio, increase equitable access to primary healthcare, and promote positive gender roles for children's development.
But what happened during these sessions went well beyond theory. Participants shared deeply personal life stories, questioned long-held beliefs, and gained new insights into what it truly means to be a father, a spouse, and a responsible member of society.
“We have five children. During the training, I realized that I wasn’t helping my wife as much as I should. I learned that, aside from giving birth and breastfeeding, I can do everything else,” says Kubwenge Jean De Dieu from Nzove hill.
Another participant, Nshimirimana Désiré from Mushitsi hill, humbly recalls a moment that stayed with him: “One day, I found my pig dead. Without even speaking to my wife, I accused her and stayed angry for days. The training helped me understand the importance of effective communication in a couple. I regret my reaction.” He proudly adds that on that same day, he was the one who changed their baby’s nappies, a clear sign that he had started to question traditional gender roles and embrace a more balanced approach to parenting.
Over five days, participants explored critical topics, including the importance of vaccination, fathers’ involvement in child-rearing, deconstructing gender stereotypes, fostering equality within the household, preventing domestic violence, managing conflict, and fairly sharing household responsibilities to create a nurturing environment for children.
The goal was to turn these couples into community role models. And change is already taking root. In the family of Turimumahoro Herman and Nzikobanyanka Patricia, from Kabasazi hill, the children themselves have noticed the difference: “Yes, yes, there has been a change! Dad sweeps, cooks, and talks to us. We’re still amazed, and we hope it lasts,” says the eldest, with a sly smile and twinkling eyes.
It’s these simple, everyday actions —sweeping, listening, cooking, talking, changing diapers —that are quietly reshaping the foundation of a more just society. These couples are becoming the building blocks of a new community model grounded in mutual respect, shared responsibilities, and the well-being of children.
By actively participating in polio eradication efforts and promoting gender equality, these individuals are becoming true agents of change. The role of fathers is no longer limited to providing material support; it now encompasses listening, nurturing, educating, and co-creating a better future for Burundi’s children. Among those we met in Ngozi that morning, one conviction resonated throughout: change is possible, and it starts in every home.
