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Patience Makwele The assault may last minutes. The trauma can last a lifetime. Yet for many rape survivors, one of the most painful experiences comes long after the crime itself. It comes when family members, friends, colleagues and even entire communities expect them to carry on as though nothing happened. For survivors, healing is rarely that simple. Long after police reports have been filed and court proceedings concluded, many continue to battle anxiety, depression, nightmares, panic attacks, trust issues and emotional wounds invisible to those around them. Despite growing awareness around gender-based violence, experts warn that Namibia still struggles to…

Patience Makwele Vice President Lucia Witbooi has called for greater support for young entrepreneurs living with disabilities, saying they are proving every day that disability is not inability through business ownership, innovation and job creation. Speaking at the closing of National Disability Week in Lüderitz on Thursday, Witbooi said young people with disabilities continue to make meaningful contributions to Namibia’s economy despite facing barriers that often limit their access to funding, training and business opportunities. “You are changing our economy. You are starting businesses, employing fellow citizens and providing community leadership,” Witbooi said. She noted that many young Namibians with…

Patience Makwele Former Olympic athlete Tjipekapora Herunga is encouraging young Namibians not to allow their backgrounds, circumstances or geographical location to define their ambitions, saying success is possible for anyone willing to work hard and remain focused on their goals. Herunga’s journey from the small village of Ehungiro in the Otjinene Constituency to competing on the world’s biggest sporting stage serves as proof that determination can overcome even the most difficult obstacles. Today, the former national sprinter is using her experiences to mentor young athletes through the Tjipekapora Herunga Athletics Academy, where she hopes to inspire the next generation to…