In this interview, Lou Lefort and Gladys Kabaghe share how gender-transformative approaches are implemented in practice within development cooperation projects. They explain how communities can overcome resistance, engage men as champions of change, and strengthen households through joint decision-making.

The discussion highlights the importance of working with communities from their own starting points rather than imposing ready-made solutions. By bringing men and women together in decision-making, projects not only advance gender equality but also deliver tangible benefits for households — from economic stability to greater harmony at home. Drawing on practical experiences, Lou Lefort and her colleague illustrate how feminist development policy can be translated into real impact on the ground.

▶️ Watch the full video to learn how SNRD Africa and GIZ are supporting gender-transformative approaches in practice.

The video is available with subtitles in English and French by choosing under CC in the Youtube player.

🎥 Filmed at the marketplace session of the 2025 SNRD Africa Conference in Lusaka, Zambia.

Hyperlinked chapters in the video for your quick access:

0:00 – Introduction
0:07 – Tools for gender-transformative work
0:33 – Mentoring materials for mentors and mentees
0:46 – Changing norms at home: fathers as role models
1:32 – Facing resistance and backlash
2:16 – Identifying male champions in communities
2:22 – Why community-driven approaches matter
2:41 – Joint decision-making strengthens households
3:16 – Economic and social benefits of gender equality
3:40 – Engaging men alongside women in projects
4:20 – Learning from husband schools and father groups
4:49 – Avoiding preconceived notions about gender roles
5:22 – Benefits for men: peace and harmony at home
6:07 – No more fights: households working together