As the world recognised International Men’s Day on Sunday, November 19, Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment, and Sport Olivia Grange urged the nation’s men to play an active role in the lives of younger boys by helping them to become men of purpose on a mission.

Grange made the call in a speech delivered on her behalf by Sharon Cobourn Robinson, principal director in the gender ministry at a church service held at the Swallowfield Chapel in St Andrew on Sunday, November 19.

She also lauded the male groups for providing ‘steady and ongoing support’ towards national development.

Grange also expressed that through outreach activities, several groups and individuals have been working to empower and inspire men and boys to become positive male role models.

“I use this opportunity to reiterate my unrivaled commitment to working tirelessly with our local, regional and international partners to implement national policies, plans, programmes and projects to address the plethora of issues which are part of the lived experience of our men and boys,” she added.

The gender minister said that the Bureau of Gender Affairs (BGA) recognises the need to establish and maintain ‘harmonious gender relations as non-negotiable planks’ towards the achievement of gender equity and social justice.

International Men’s Day is observed annually on November 19 to spread awareness on the many issues that men face and to foster greater social inclusion and support for men.