Founder's Story
I grew up believing that real men don’t show weakness ,that strength means silence, endurance, and self-reliance. But everything changed when I watched my father suffer quietly with diabetes and hypertension. He hid his pain to appear strong, and by the time we discovered the truth, it was almost too late. That moment broke something in me and opened my eyes.
I realized that many men, especially in rural Zambia, face the same silent battles. They delay seeking care, not because they are strong, but because society tells them they must be.
That’s why I started HIMZ, to challenge these harmful norms, to encourage men to speak openly, seek help early, and take pride in caring for their health.
For me, true strength is not in silence but in the courage to ask for help. Through HIMZ, I want to build a community where men can heal, find purpose, and live with dignity. Because even the strongest pillars need support and healing begins when we stand together.
Alick Mandandi
Founder, HIMZ
Vision
A Zambia where men embrace vulnerability, seeks healing without shame, and grows old in dignity and connection.
Mission
HIMZ challenges harmful patriarchal norms by creating safe, healing spaces for men through community gardens and mobile health services
Objectives
- Challenge patriarchal norms that prevent men from seeking healthcare or expressing vulnerability.
- Provide accessible community solutions through organic gardens and livestock production
- Improve early detection and management of diabetes and hypertension among men in rural Zambia through mobile clinics
Our Mission
At HIMZ, we are dedicated to challenging harmful patriarchal norms that cause silent suffering among elderly men. Through our innovative programs like mobile medical vans (H4HIM) and organic HIM Gardens, we promote healing, dignity, and a positive redefinition of masculinity, fostering community support and health equity.
Bringing Healthcare to Zambia's Elderly Men with H4HIM
H4HIM is our Mobile Medical Van which overcome geographical barriers, delivering essential healthcare services directly to elderly men in remote Zambian communities. We provide check ups, medication, and vital health education, ensuring no one is left behind.
Cultivating Health and Dignity through Organic HIM Gardens
Our Organic HIM Gardens initiative empowers elderly Zambian men by promoting sustainable agriculture and providing access to nutritious food. This program fosters a sense of community, improves mental and physical wellbeing, and redefines traditional masculinity through collaborative gardening efforts.
Support Our Mission
Latest Updates
Empowering Change: How You Can Support HIMZ’s Mission
Discover various ways to support Health Initiative for Men Zambia (HIMZ) and contribute to improving
Cultivating Dignity: The Healing Power of HIM Gardens
HIM Gardens offer a therapeutic space for elderly Zambian men to engage in organic gardening,
H4HIM: Bringing Healthcare to the Doorsteps of Elderly Zambian Men
The H4HIM program utilizes mobile medical vans to deliver crucial healthcare services directly to elderly
Breaking the Silence: HIMZ’s Approach to Elderly Men’s Health
Health Initiative for Men Zambia (HIMZ) is pioneering a new approach to addressing the silent
