Experiences of male gender-based violence survivors: case of Padare men’s forum, Harare

Abstract

This study explored the experiences of male gender-based violence (GBV) survivors at Padare Men’s Forum in Harare, Zimbabwe. Guided by the Strength-Based Theory, the study employed a qualitative case study design involving five male survivors and three key informants. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews, focus group discussions, and key informant interviews and analyzed using thematic analysis. Findings revealed that male survivors experienced physical, verbal, psychological,economic, and spiritual abuse. Survivors employed coping mechanisms including avoidance and denial, social isolation, substance use, faith-based coping, and helpseeking. Padare Men’s Forum provided counselling, peer support, legal advocacy, community awareness programme, and referral services, although economic empowerment support remained limited. The study concludes that male GBV is a significant but under-recognized social problem in Zimbabwe and that culturally responsive, gender-inclusive interventions are required. The study recommends strengthening support services, improving awareness, expanding economic empowerment initiatives, and promoting gender-inclusive policies and social work practice.