OYO and partners mobilise communities against GBV
The Ombetja Yehinga Organisation (OYO) last week launched its nationwide campaign for the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence in Okahandja to raise awareness and mobilise communities against digital and physical forms of abuse.Supported by the German embassy, Orange Babies and UNFPA in Namibia and Hope Initiatives Southern Africa-Namibia (HISA), the campaign aims to provide vital services, strengthen community engagement and encourage critical dialogue.
This year's GBV campaign is themed “Unite to End Digital Violence against All Women and Girls”.
The campaigners will reach out to communities in Okahandja, Usakos, Omaruru, Karibib, Windhoek (Otjomuise and Katutura), Keetmanshoop and Rehoboth.
OYO director Philippe Talavera said online violence is becoming increasingly common in Namibia. “Although little data exists, many young people have shared their experiences with us,” he said. “We also aim to gather more data during the events to better understand the situation on the ground.”
Myriad cases
Okahandja deputy mayor Akser Aupindi, recalling the killings of three young girls earlier this year, said: “Gender-based violence is real.” He noted that more than 4 800 cases were reported nationally in 2024. This initiative is not just a campaign; it is a call to action. We have a collective duty to build a nation where every person can live a life of dignity, safety and equality.”
Aupindi praised organisations such as OYO for their tireless grassroots efforts and encouraged community members to take full advantage of the free services provided. The Walvis Bay Corridor Group’s mobile clinic was on site, offering HIV testing, blood pressure checks and counselling to ensure vital health services were accessible to all.
Aupindi outlined a comprehensive set of measures to address GBV, including strengthening legal frameworks, promoting respect and non-violence within education systems, empowering women and vulnerable groups, and building strong support networks.
He highlighted the critical role of men and boys as allies and called for improved survivor support through trauma-informed care, legal aid, and economic empowerment.
“As we launch the 16 Days of Activism, let this not be a symbolic act,” Aupindi urged. “Let it be the beginning of a sustained movement. Each of us, whether in our homes, schools or workplaces, has a role to play.”
Global crisis, local support
German ambassador to Namibia Thorsten Hutter emphasised that GBV is a global crisis requiring urgent and united action.
He noted that even in Germany, femicide remains a pressing concern. “Gender-based violence must end. Every person deserves to live in safety, dignity and respect,” he said.
Hutter highlighted Germany’s longstanding partnership with Namibia, grounded in human rights and equality.
Through its human rights fund, Germany supports initiatives that combat discrimination and violence.
This year, the German embassy has contributed more than N$260 000 to OYO’s campaign, which includes performances, exhibitions and screenings of impactful short films such as 'Be a Lady and Be a Man'.
A mobile clinic and youth counsellor will be available at every event to support survivors. “OYO has been at the forefront of fighting GBV in communities such as Okahandja, Usakos and Keetmanshoop,” Hutter said. “Ending gender-based violence is not something one country or organisation can do alone. It requires all of us working together with compassion and determination. Germany stands with Namibia in this fight.”
The 16 Days of Activism campaign will run from 18 November to 4 December, with all events free and open to the public. - [email protected]