The fight against gender-based violence (GBV) intensified in Kavango East this week with the official launch of the “End GBV Namibia” campaign by Regional Governor Hamunyera Hambyuka in Rundu.
The campaign aims to raise awareness, promote accountability, and foster open dialogue within communities to address the root causes of GBV. Governor Hambyuka emphasized that while the campaign alone may not end the crisis, it is intended to spark critical conversations across households, workplaces, and institutions.
Police statistics reveal that since January, 42 cases of rape, domestic abuse, and other immoral practices have been recorded across the region, with hotspots identified in villages such as Sambyu, Ndiyona, Divundu, and urban locations like Kehemu and Ndama in Rundu.
Detective Sergeant Asser Kavara of the Kehemu Police GBV Unit noted that substance abuse, poverty, and jealousy are leading contributors to domestic violence, often involving minors and vulnerable individuals. “Alcohol is not an excuse. Violence remains a criminal offence,” he stated.
Rundu Rural Constituency Councillor Paulus Mbangu further urged for equal application of justice, highlighting the tendency to shield powerful individuals from accountability.
“The Constitution protects all victims, regardless of the perpetrator’s status,” he said.The campaign will be rolled out across all constituencies in Kavango East, calling on citizens to speak up, support survivors, and challenge societal norms that enable.
