ABSTRACT
This chapter introduces the context for the study of young masculinities and sexual health in southern Africa – a region burdened by poverty, violence and HIV. Through analyses of young men in Botswana, Eswatini, Lesotho, Madagascar, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, Zambia and Zimbabwe, the chapter introduces the connections between masculinity, gender norms, health and sexuality as well as the ways in which cultural norms and historical legacies shape young men’s experiences of masculinity and sexuality. The chapter introduces the four themes of the book: Love, Pleasure, and Romance; Social Norms, Masculinity and Health; Masculinity and Sexual Risk; and Masculinity and HIV. These themes highlight the interconnectedness of young men’s experiences with sexuality, masculinity and health. The chapter calls for comprehensive, context-specific interventions that challenge harmful masculinities while promoting equitable gender relations. The chapter advocates for a transformative approach to understanding and addressing young masculinities that fosters respect, communication and shared responsibility in relationships, aiming for better health outcomes and gender justice in the region.
