Sioka calls for collective investment to prevent GBV

Minister of Gender Equality, Poverty Eradication and Social Welfare, Doreen Sioka, on Tuesday urged the government, civil society, churches and traditional authorities to prioritise investment in preventive measures to combat violence against women and girls.

Sioka made the statement in Mariental during the launch of the commemoration of ‘16 Days of Activism against Gender-based Violence’ under the theme ‘Unite! Invest to prevent violence against women and girls.’

In her statement released by the gender ministry, Sioka said gender-based violence is a significant concern in Namibia.
She said according to a demographic health survey conducted in 2013, Namibia had a prevalence rate of 33 per cent for gender-based violence.

The minister also said statistics on GBV-related cases are alarming, with a notable increase in the sexual abuse of children, especially by their biological fathers or other family members.

“Those who are suffering should reach out for assistance. Services are available at GBV protective units under the Namibian Police aimed at providing effective comprehensive services to GBV survivors and their families,” Sioka said.

Speaking at a similar launch in Windhoek, Women’s Action for Development Executive Director Salatiel Shinedima said investing in the fight against gender-based violence is not merely a moral imperative, but an economic and social necessity.

Shinedima emphasised the importance of fostering safer environments that allow individuals to thrive without fear and empowering every member of society to contribute meaningfully to collective progress.

“Investment in education and skill-building programmes, particularly for women and marginalised communities, can break the cycle of violence by providing avenues for economic independence and empowerment,” he said.

The ‘16 Days of Activism against Gender-based Violence’ is an annual international campaign that starts on 25 November, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, and runs until 10 December, Human Rights Day.

The campaign is used as an organising strategy by individuals and organisations around the world to call for the prevention and elimination of violence against women and girls.

(NAMPA)
IS/AS
(NAMPA)