Namibian men trapped in financial exploitation
Sociologists and advocates in Namibia highlight how economic hardship and power imbalances leave young men vulnerable to financial exploitation. Societal expectations of male strength often prevent these men from seeking help or speaking out about their experiences.
Why it matters
It sheds light on an under-reported social issue regarding gender dynamics and economic vulnerability in Namibia.
Economic hardship and unequal power dynamics leave young Namibian men vulnerable to financial exploitation, while societal expectations prevent them from seeking help.
This is according to University of Namibia senior sociology lecturer Ellison Tjirera.
Meanwhile, mental health advocate Elago Nantana says no statistics on the ‘blesser’ phenomenon involving young men are available, since society expects them to be strong and self-reliant, and they therefore do not speak out.
Tjirera says some older women, often referred to as ‘sugar mummies’, use their financial status to prey on young men struggling to meet their basic needs.
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