Exploring the impact of combining women’s empowerment through village savings and loans associations with men’s sensitization on gender equity on socio-economic, maternal, and children’s health outcomes

Background The Democratic Republic of the Congo is among the poorest countries in the world with a low gender development index. To help households improve their economic levels and address gender-based violence, the Mawe Tatu programme was created to combine women’s empowerment through village savings and loans associations (VSLA) with engaging men in changing their attitudes and adopting positive masculinities. Methods This study explores the impact of women’s empowerment through VSLA while their husbands participate in a men’s reflection group pursuing a gender equity curriculum. Data were collected over three years through focus group discussions and in-depth interviews with both men and women. Data were analysed using an inductive approach, building themes based on respondents’ narratives. Results Household welfare was described as ‘improved’ when both partners participated in the intervention. More cash was available in the household, cohesion within the couple increased, and men were more likely to involve their wives in decision-making processes. Men were also more involved in childcare and more concerned about their partner’s health, especially during pregnancy. Conclusion Combining women's economic empowerment through VSLA while raising awareness of gender equity among their husbands is a promising approach. However, it is necessary to develop positive femininities in parallel to positive masculinities, as women to avoid being judged, may fear changes preserving empirical gender norms. Creating more ‘friendly’ and inclusive spaces in health centers will make it easier for men to accompany their wives for maternal health services.