Author and recent PhD graduate breaks taboos to foster open sexuality talks in African families
Dr Victorine Mbong Shu’s pioneering research sheds light on the delicate balance between silence and openness in African families, empowering parents and adolescents to navigate conversations about sex with trust and respect.
A multiple award-winning author and a recent PhD graduate from the University of Free State, Dr Victorine Mbong Shu (48) is reshaping how African families talk about one of the most sensitive, yet essential topics: Sexuality.
From an early career focused on involved parenting, to her ground-breaking doctoral research, Mbong Shu’s work centres on the delicate balance between openness and silence around sex and sexuality in African households.
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This dynamic shapes not only adolescent identity but also family cohesion. “Many African families struggle with the tension between wanting to share guidance and values, and cultural or religious taboos that encourage silence.This tension directly impacts how young people understand themselves and their place within their families and communities.”
Her research uncovers the nuanced ways culture and religion act both as barriers and enablers in these conversations.
While traditional views often frame sex as taboo, they also provide unique entry points for parents to open meaningful dialogues rooted in respect, responsibility, and identity.
Mbong Shu highlights significant gender and generational differences in communication patterns. She said mothers tend to be more approachable in discussing sexuality, while fathers are often seen as distant disciplinarians. Moreover, what parents perceive as respectful silence can feel like neglect to adolescents.
“Without open communication, adolescents may turn to peers or media for answers, which can sometimes be misleading or harmful. Fostering trust and respect creates confident young people who make healthier decisions.”
Beyond her research, she brings personal insight as a married mother of four children, giving her a grounded perspective on the challenges families face.
She encourages parents to start conversations gradually, introducing one term at a time, such as explaining erection or wet dreams to younger children to demystify these topics and build comfort over time.
She added that schools and community organisations also have a vital role to play. She advocates for empowering parent bodies with expert guidance to facilitate open, safe discussions at home.
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Her work intersects with broader themes of identity, parenting styles, and family finance, noting how modelling respectful communication influences how children relate to all aspects of life.
Currently, Mbong Shu is open to collaborations across academia, media, policy development, and community engagement.
She regularly offers workshops, lectures, and public talks aimed at strengthening family relationships and empowering adolescents.
“I am most excited to lecture, to research, to develop policies, and to implement, but I can also lead teams of every nature, because for the past 18 plus years, I ran my company, Profounder Intelligence Management Services, based in Bramley. The company is still in business, but I think communities need my expertise.”
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