In Namibia, between August 2022 and June 2023, 623 people committed suicide, of which 511 were men, representing almost 82% of suicides, the New Era LIVE newspaper reported on November 27, the latest data from the Ministry of health.
A study conducted by the ministry shows that suicides in Namibia are mainly caused by depression, followed by rejection of reality, hopelessness, family problems, low self-esteem and the desire to let others know the pain they are experiencing the victims.
This alarming trend prompted a conference for men at Keetmanshoop on Thursday with the theme “Zero Male Suicide: Promoting Positive Masculinity.”
More than 300 men from the Kharas region attended the third Namibian National Men’s Conference. It was organized by the Ministry of Gender Equality, Poverty Eradication and Social Welfare.
In a speech read on his behalf, Deputy Minister of Marginalized Communities, Royal |U|o|oo, urged men to encourage each other in a positive way, adding that they should share positive experiences that help others, as well as promote a culture. of non-violence.
“Let us seek help when we experience disappointment, rejection or any other difficult situation we find ourselves in. I believe that as men we can fight for a culture of non-violence; “We can resolve conflicts without violence.”– he said.
The aim of the conference was to create a platform for men to discuss issues related to combating gender violence and gender equality. It should provide a safe space for men to engage on issues that affect them, raise awareness and share experiences on mental health issues, and learn about legal frameworks designed to curb gender-based violence (with particular attention to amended laws).
In his welcoming remarks, Namibia Correctional Service Southern Region Commander Leonard Mahundu said: “Men today mistakenly believe that masculinity is associated with aggression, dominance and a lack of emotions and feelings.”.
He said that men feel the need to hide problems such as heartbreak and life’s difficulties, and when they can no longer do so, this principle leads to devastating consequences for themselves, those around them, and society as a whole.
Gaudentia Kröne, member of the Keetmanshoop municipal council, said: “Just remember, there is always a good listener and a helping hand outside your barriers that can steer you away from suicidal thoughts.”.
In his speech, Gerald Frederick of the group Men as Examples mentioned the alarming increase in suicides as the reluctance of men to talk and support each other, the lack of proper structures/organizations that could help men solve their problems, and also as an important factor: the inability to release repressed emotions without violence or self-destruction.
“Society must realize that men are not superhuman, they lack emotions and do not belong to the superior sex, which can more easily endure pain and insults.”he emphasized.
Other topics discussed by the men at the conference included how they felt Namibia’s laws favored women and girls over men and boys; lack of jobs as countries move towards artificial intelligence; the problem of paternity and the role of the churches.
Source: Rossa Primavera
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