International Men's Day: Health, Role Models and Real Talk
International Men's Day falls on November 19 and focuses on men's health, positive role models, and improving gender relations. At CottonCandi News we treat this day as a chance to highlight real stories from across Africa — men holding communities together, men struggling with mental health, fathers making a difference, and critics pushing for policy change.
We tackle the issues that often go missing in headlines. That means clear reporting on men's physical health — prostate and testicular awareness, access to clinics, and how cultural pressure delays care. It also means honest coverage of mental health: depression, suicide risks, and the stigma that keeps men from asking for help. When a public figure speaks up, or a grassroots group sets up a free screening, we report the facts and tell people where to get support.
Sports, courts and politics matter too. Athletes and public figures can be role models but also subjects of scrutiny. Our reporting connects those dots — from big wins on the field to legal and social debates off it. You'll find pieces that show how sports heroes influence young men and how policy choices affect families and communities.
How you can take part
You don't need a big event to join International Men's Day. Book a health check, talk openly with a friend about stress, or support a local fatherhood program. If you run a workplace, schedule a talk on mental health or promote flexible leave for fathers. Small actions make it easier for men to seek help and stay healthy.
How CottonCandi covers the day
On our tag page we gather news, features and opinion pieces related to men's issues. Expect interviews with doctors, stories about community campaigns, profiles of positive male role models, and analysis of laws that affect men and families. We focus on practical, local information — where to find services, dates and places for events, and names of organisations that help.
We also welcome your stories. If you lead a programme, have a personal experience to share, or want to suggest a topic, send us a note. We publish first-hand accounts and ground-level reporting because that's what helps readers act.
International Men's Day is not about competing with other awareness days. It's about saying men's health and wellbeing deserve attention, too. Read our latest pieces on this tag, sign up for alerts, and share helpful resources. When men are healthier and better supported, communities are stronger.
If you're organizing an event, pick a clear theme and partner with a health clinic or local NGO. Promote free screenings, a talk on stress and a Q&A with a doctor. Schools and sports clubs can run sessions on respect, consent and healthy masculinity. Employers can share resources, set up peer-support groups and publicise leave policies. Want to highlight someone? Nominate a local man who mentors youth or supports families — we feature those profiles. Send photos, bios and contact details to our newsroom for coverage today.
