Uweza Soccer Academy: A Field for Men’s Perspective on Masculinity and Gender-Based Violence in Kibera

Abstract

This study explores how thirteen young men (aged 19-23) from the Uweza Soccer Academy understand masculinity and gender-based violence (GBV), and how they perceive Uweza to have shaped their views. Despite growing recognition of the need to engage men in GBV prevention, there remains a notable gap in localized research exploring how young men in informal settlements like Kibera understand masculinity and GBV, and how soccer-based programmes may shape these perspectives. Using participant observation, semi-structured interviews, and photo-elicitation, this study centers the voices of young men to provide insight into the potential role of soccer-based programs in addressing GBV. Findings show that participants perceived both direct and indirect influences from Uweza on their views; however, these influences remained largely confined to the soccer field. This suggests that such programs may function not only as behavioral tools but also as spaces where identities and perspectives begin to shift, highlighting their potential role in broader GBV prevention strategies.