Neglect of the Boy Child amid Girl Child Empowerment in Zimbabwe: A Scoping Review and Baseline Evidence Map of Psychological and Sociological Implications

Abstract

Background: Zimbabwe’s girl-child empowerment initiatives have achieved notable educational milestones, with primary school completion rates of 89% for girls and 78% for boys (Mugabe & Ndlovu, 2022; Tafara, 2025). However, these successes have coincided with emerging patterns of boy-child vulnerability, including 22% suicidal ideation among male university students (Mutsvairo et al., 2023; Mhlanga & Chidarikire, 2025), 28% higher secondary school dropout rates, a 41% male youth NEET (Not in Education, Employment or Training) status, and a 35% depression prevalence among rural males. Cultural pressures, such as lobola costs averaging US$3,500, further compound these psychological and sociological strains
Objective: This scoping review systematically maps existing evidence on boy-child neglect occurring alongside girl-child empowerment programmes in Zimbabwe.
Methods: Employing a six-stage scoping approach, the review synthesises 40 sources (20 empirical studies, 12 reports/policy papers, and 8 theoretical works). The analysis follows the PRISMA-ScR flow, the PCC (Population, Concept, Context) framework, and a three-part conceptual lens combining General Strain Theory, Attachment Theory, and Self-Determination Theory.
Results: Four main evidence domains emerge: (1) representation and funding gaps, where 85% of gender-focused resources are allocated to girls and less than 5% to boys; (2) educational and employment disparities, characterised by high male school disengagement and NEET rates; (3) mental health and substance use, including a 42% prevalence of alcohol use disorder; and (4) cultural dynamics, notably lobola-related debt and rigid masculinity norms.
Conclusions: The review indicates that neglect of boy children occurs alongside, rather than in competition with, progress for girl children. Interdependent family resilience relies on expanding effective interventions, such as vocational training (with a 27% re-engagement rate) and peer support, alongside ongoing programmes for women to foster national stability.