First Gentleman Epaphras Ndaitwah says there is a growing imbalance in male participation and engagement across the educational and social development pipeline.

Ndaitwah therefore stressed that it is imperative to foster a society that values the development of boys, supports their mental and emotional wellbeing, and equips them with skills to contribute to the national development and social progress.

In his statement on the International Day of the Boy Child, Ndaitwah noted while the nation corrects the historical imbalance of girls, there is also a need to ensure an inclusive and sustainable national development that does not overlook a boy child.

"Many boys are growing up without fathers or positive male role models. Many lack structured mentorship and guidance. Many are exposed early to substance abuse, violence, and negative peer pressure. Many struggle with identity formation, emotional well-being, and purpose."

Another area is gaps in sexual and reproductive health education, where boys are often excluded or insufficiently supported.

This, he said, has compromised their ability to make informed decisions about their health, relationships, and responsibilities.

"There is therefore a need to develop innovative programmes through sports, agriculture, mentorship, and youth empowerment platforms where guidance and life skills can be integrated effectively. In doing so, we shall advance health equity among adolescents while ensuring that both boys and girls receive meaningful and relevant support."

In response to these realities, the First Gentleman's office is currently developing targeted national programmes that support and empower the boy child. 

They centred around educational retention and dropout prevention, mentorship and leadership development, mental health and emotional wellbeing, among others.

"However, such efforts require collective national commitment. I therefore call upon government institutions to strengthen policy coordination and integrate boy child development into national education, health, and youth frameworks. I equally call upon academic and research institutions to support rigorous studies that will guide policy and evidence-based implementation."

The day was celebrated under the theme "Breaking the Silence: Boys and Mental Health" as a reminder that the wellbeing of the boy child is inseparable from the wellbeing of families, communities, and the nation.