AB3D kicks off an innovative community-based initiative to strengthen family health and shared responsibility
The Association Burundaise pour le Développement, Démocratie et Droits Humains (AB3D) has officially launched the FatherFirst initiative in Kabezi commune, marking an important milestone in efforts to promote inclusive family health practices in Burundi.
This launch represents more than the start of a project—it signals the beginning of a transformative journey to redefine the role of fathers in child health and well-being.
Starting with Those Who Will Drive Change
The first phase of the initiative focused on training a group of dedicated community facilitators—men and women selected for their commitment and influence within their communities.
Over the course of the training, facilitators were equipped with:
Practical skills to lead community dialogue
Tools to address sensitive topics around gender roles and parenting
Techniques to encourage participation and trust
These facilitators are now prepared to play a central role in driving behavioral change at the grassroots level.
Introducing “Imiryango Circles”
At the heart of FatherFirst are the Imiryango Circles—small, structured group sessions where fathers come together to reflect, learn, and exchange.
These circles will provide safe and inclusive spaces for participants to:
Discuss fatherhood and shared responsibility
Challenge harmful stereotypes around gender roles
Learn about child health, including vaccination and primary healthcare
Share personal experiences and practical solutions
Through open dialogue and peer learning, these sessions aim to foster lasting changes in attitudes and practices.
A Vision Rooted in Community Reality
FatherFirst is built on a clear and powerful vision:
engaging fathers as active partners in their children’s health leads to stronger families and healthier communities.
In many settings, caregiving is still largely seen as the responsibility of mothers. By encouraging fathers to take a more active role, the initiative seeks to:
Improve health-seeking behaviors
Strengthen communication within households
Promote more balanced and supportive family dynamics
Looking Ahead
Following this successful launch, the project will move into its implementation phase, where:
Imiryango Circles sessions will begin in the community
Fathers will be actively engaged and supported
Continuous learning and feedback will guide the process
This is only the beginning—but the foundations for meaningful change have already been laid.
A Collective Effort for Lasting Impact
The success of FatherFirst will rely on the collaboration between facilitators, community leaders, families, and local health actors.
By working together, these stakeholders will help build a new narrative around fatherhood—one that values presence, care, and shared responsibility.
About AB3D
The Association Burundaise pour le Développement, Démocratie et Droits Humains (AB3D) is committed to promoting inclusive development, citizen participation, and social innovation through community-driven initiatives across Burundi.
Conclusion
The launch of FatherFirst in Kabezi is a promising step toward transforming how families approach child health.
Because when fathers step forward, communities move forward.
Go ahead
Thank you…