Niël Terblanché
The Blue Project, a branch of Love in Network Namibia, has expressed deep grief and concern over the recent violent incidents in Namibia.
This was prompted by the brutal assault and subsequent death of Sheehama Matheus in Walvis Bay and the fatal stabbing of a 20-year-old man by a 25-year-old man over N$5 phone credit in Gibeon.
The project co-founder, Tangeni Mujoro, said in a statement released on Wednesday said these tragic events are seen as part of a broader crisis affecting Namibian communities.
“The streets, once considered safe, are now fraught with fear as young men increasingly resort to violence,” said Mujoro.
Sheehama Matheus, a final-year engineering student and the eldest of three siblings, was reported missing on 27 July.
His body washed up on a beach near the navy base in Walvis Bay earlier this week.
A family spokesperson, Nuujoma Martins, described Matheus as a joyful person who loved making jokes and helping with household chores.
According to court documents, six young men fatally attacked Matheus after he allegedly slapped his girlfriend’s brother.
The suspects, Jimmy Gaeb (24), Marvin Wapota (20), Romano Paulus (20), Enrico Gomachab (20), and another 24-year-old male, have been denied bail and remain in custody as the police investigation continues, with a post-mortem examination planned to determine the exact cause of his death.
In light of these events, Mujoro called for urgent action to address the neglect and moral decay among young men.
She emphasises that the responsibility for the current state of young males lies with the broader community, urging all adults to engage in introspection and take active steps to preserve future generations.
Mujoro stresses the necessity for immediate and concerted efforts to provide support and guidance to adolescent boys and young men.
She pointed to the urgent need for comprehensive programs that address the educational, social, and emotional needs of young males to prevent further violence and societal breakdown.
“It is time for the community to unite, take responsibility, and become part of the solution to prevent further tragedies and rebuild a safe and supportive environment for all,” said Mujoro.
