Mallex Shipanga
A group of men took to the streets last week in Rundu to raise awareness about gender-based violence (GBV) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).
The “Men’s Commitment Walk against Gender-Based Violence” is part of the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence campaign, organised by IntraHealth Namibia.
Participants marched from the Rundu Sports Stadium to the Kavango East Regional Governor’s Office, where Governor Bonifatius Wakudumo addressed the gathering.
“Today, all of us present here have a task to pledge and commit towards the fight against gender-based violence. I therefore pledge to stand against gender-based violence,” said Wakudumo.
He also pledged to advocate for those unable to articulate their own thoughts, to embody integrity and fortitude, and to advance the cause of life and harmony.
He emphasised the importance of teaching young boys to become better men.
Wakudumo encouraged men to confront toxic masculinity.
“As men, we have an essential role to play in this movement. It is time for us to confront the toxic notions of masculinity that have, for generations, perpetuated cycles of violence and oppression,” he said.
Wakudumo then addressed the need for systemic change.
“Each story of violence endured is a stark reminder of the urgent need for systemic change and personal accountability,” he said.
He suggested that men can fight GBV and HIV by being actively involved in raising their children, creating safe environments for them, creating a safe listening space for women, holding other men accountable, stopping harmful ideas of toxic masculinity, supporting women’s organizations, and understanding consent.
GBV remains a pressing human rights issue nationwide.
The Namibian Police have recorded 4 814 cases of GBV during the 2023/2024 financial year.
This figure is almost double the amount of the 2 643 cases of GBV recorded by the police during the 2020/2021 financial year.
The United Nations defines GBV as any harmful act against an individual based on their gender.
