Father for Change Program, in the four session-Namlesso. Photo: Fokupers Lens. Date:16/05/2026
Aileu, 16 May 2026 — FOKUPERS continues the fourth session of its program “Aman ba Mudansa” (Father of Change) in Namolesso, Lequidoe Administrative Post, which involved 15 couples in learning activities and reflection on maternal and child health, and healthy family relationships.
The program aims to strengthen harmonious relationships between couples through good communication, mutual respect, and joint participation in family decision-making. Through this approach, FOKUPERS encourages men to take an active role in supporting their partners during pregnancy and childhood.
The fourth session was facilitated by the Namolesso Community Health Center through midwife Evalina da Conceicão, who provided education on various important aspects of maternal and child health.
Topics discussed included biological changes during pregnancy, the importance of prenatal visits and Antenatal Care (ANC), nutrition for pregnant women, benefits of exclusive breastfeeding, danger signs during and after childbirth, and the role of men and mothers in supporting babies. Participants were also encouraged to understand the importance of preventing violence during pregnancy.
The discussion was participatory and open, providing space for couples to share their experiences, hopes, feelings, and challenges in preparing for childbirth. Participants recognized that maternal and infant health is not solely the responsibility of women, but a responsibility shared by all family members and the community.
FOKUPERS believes that education, healthy communication, and men’s involvement in family life can help create a safe, supportive, and violence-free environment. The active and caring presence of fathers during pregnancy and after childbirth is crucial to building healthy and equal families.
The “Father of Change” program is continues a focus by FOKUPERS to encourage social transformation at the community level, by involving men as agents of change to support women’s rights and family well-being.
Within this training FOKUPERS also provides learning activities through play with children and gives space to parents to participate actively. 15 children were involved in the positive play activities, learning the values of equality, mutual respect, and living without violence from an early age.
The program is funded by Misereor, with technical support from The Asia Foundation-Nabilan, and NGO HAMNASA.
