The Ombetja Yehinga Organisation (OYO) held its closing ceremony for the Caring Namibia Man photo exhibition.

The exhibition, open since the 5th of July, displayed photos portraying a positive side of Namibian men.

Negative stigma around masculinity, related to bad behaviour, has increased in the country due to crime and gender-based violence.

The exhibition aimed to promote positive masculinity and raise awareness that not all men are cruel, violent, or criminal.

This negative portrayal of men, experts say, often shuts down healthy male identity and discourages emotional growth.

OYO Director Dr. Philippe Talavera said the media always reports on the negative things men get involved in but hardly features the hard-working men who contribute to society and care for their families.

"We use those photos in schools; we do have in-school sessions with learners. Actually, more than sessions, they are debates with learners. And that's a step in the right direction, talking with kids about positive masculinity. What type of men do they want to become in the future?"

The exhibition also aims to encourage young men not to engage in GBV and not to steer away from their goals and dreams by being drawn to alcohol or drug abuse.

Physical theatre, comprising contemporary dance and drama, graced the audience with stories that illustrated the negative impact of GBV and child abuse.

Performers expressed pride in their performance and hope that it has a positive impact on Namibian children who are able to witness it.