Access Holdings Champions Men’s Mental and Physical Health Across Eight African Markets

Access Holdings Champions Men’s Mental and Physical Health Across Eight African Markets

Access Holdings has launched a far-reaching campaign across its African subsidiaries to mark International Men’s Health Month, delivering a coordinated programme of activities aimed at improving men’s physical, mental and emotional wellbeing. The month-long initiative, held every November, focused on education, early detection, community outreach and stigma reduction.

In Nigeria, where the Group has its largest employee base, the campaign kicked off with a special edition of the Under the Tie podcast dedicated to men’s wellness. The session encouraged male staff to openly discuss emotional, physical and mental health concerns. To extend the impact beyond the workplace, Access Bank organised free prostate screening for men in Ebute Metta, reinforcing its commitment to community wellbeing.

In Ghana, employees expressed solidarity with the global Blue November movement through a themed dress day that saw workers wear blue. The subsidiary also hosted multiple wellness education programmes on diet, exercise, mental health and early medical checks. A key highlight was a preventive health session led by Dr. George Bediako Inkoom, who provided practical guidance on long-term wellness.

Botswana approached the month from a psychological health perspective. Through its wellness partner Lyra, the bank hosted an open mental health talk for male employees, encouraging them to ask questions and share experiences. Lighter engagements, including a “Spot the Mo-staches” quiz and a “Wear Blue” day, helped foster participation and raise awareness.

Kenya’s activation focused on visibility and preventive care. Staff wore blue ribbons every Friday, sparking daily conversations on men’s health. The bank later held a well-attended International Men’s Day webinar with 276 participants, including customers and National Bank of Kenya staff. Discussions centred on prostate cancer, mental wellbeing and celebrating men and boys. The subsidiary also arranged wellness checks and screenings with medical partners.

In Rwanda, Access Bank collaborated with AVEGA Clinic to conduct a prostate cancer awareness session. To demystify the subject, the subsidiary produced a short educational video explaining risk factors and encouraging early detection, making the information accessible to diverse age groups.

Guinea delivered one of the most engaging efforts across the Group, reaching more than 2,400 people. Employees wore blue ribbons every Thursday, complemented by posters, digital visuals and targeted communication focused on symptoms, risks and preventive behaviours.

In Angola, the campaign emphasised openness and conversation. Staff wore blue ribbons throughout the month while facilitated discussions, supported by partner Atrevit, encouraged men to talk candidly about health concerns often left unaddressed.

Namibia closed the month with one of the Group’s most active programmes, combining Blue November awareness sessions, dress-up competitions, team-building activities and a “Mo Your Own Way in Blue” experience. The campaign culminated in a “Move for Movember” hike, promoting physical fitness and strengthening workplace connections.

Across the continent, Access Holdings’ 2025 Men’s Health Month initiatives underscored the importance of organisational support in encouraging men to prioritize their wellbeing. By combining emotional care, medical access, social engagement and community outreach, the Group demonstrated a unified commitment to building healthier workplaces and societies.