Oshikoto Governor calls for safe spaces for boys and men facing abuse

Oshikoto Governor Sacky Kathindi. Photo: NBC

OMUTHIYA, Namibia — Speaking at the launch of the #EndGBVNamibia campaign in Omuthiya, Oshikoto Governor Sacky Kathindi highlighted a pressing but often ignored issue: the silent suffering of boys and men subjected to abuse. Kathindi emphasized the urgent need to create safe spaces where they can speak out without fear or stigma.

In his speech, the governor remarked that many men endure violence—emotional, physical, and psychological—within their own homes but feel silenced by societal expectations and shame. He called on communities, schools, and families to recognize men’s pain and provide platforms for healing and support.

Kathindi further urged fathers to teach their sons that true strength lies in seeking help, breaking the stereotype that vulnerability is weakness. He underscored that masculinity should be rooted in compassion, dignity, and responsibility, not dominance or silence.

This message comes amidst a broader national push to tackle gender-based violence in the country, including cases often unreported or ignored when the victims are male. Recent figures show a growing recognition from government ministries that men and boys also fall prey to abuse and trauma.